JP2010172523A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine giving a player information of advising the player to adjust an operation handle corresponding to change of a game state and capable of removing burden on the player with providing the player with beneficial information. <P>SOLUTION: The game states controlled by a control means 100 include a shorter-time game state in which more prize winning chances at a second starting slot are provided and a non-shorter-time game state in which less prize winning chances at the second starting slot are provided. The control means 100 informs the player that the player should change an operation input by the operation handle for a predetermined time when the game state has changed from the shorter-time game state to the non-shorter-time game state. The control means 100 executes the control to terminate the informing when the amount of operation with the operation handle has changed during the informing. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that performs a lottery drawing when a game ball enters a start opening.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is known a gaming machine capable of executing a jackpot game capable of winning a prize ball when a jackpot lottery is performed in response to a game ball entering a start opening and the jackpot is won. In such a jackpot game, a special winning opening normally maintained in a closed state is opened, and a winning ball corresponding to the number of gaming balls that have entered the special winning opening is paid out to the player.

  In such a gaming machine, as a jackpot game, it is not possible to win a long hit game that can acquire a large amount of prize balls or a large amount of prize balls, but for example, the game state is changed from a low probability game state to a high probability game. Those having a short hit game that can trigger the transition to a state are widely known.

  In addition, as shown in Patent Document 1, a gaming machine provided with a plurality of large winning openings such as a first winning prize opening and a second winning prize opening is also known. In the gaming machine shown in Patent Document 1, during a jackpot game, a player strikes a game ball aiming at either a first prize opening or a second prize opening that is open. You can win a prize ball at. In this way, the player hits the game ball (specifically, the player adjusts the launch handle to change the launch strength of the game ball, hereinafter referred to as “changing the stroke”), so that the big hit game It is assumed that the monotony can be eliminated.

  In recent years, there have been known gaming machines equipped with two starting ports at positions where two starting ports are not allowed to enter a game ball launched to enter one starting port. In such a gaming machine, one of the starting ports is set so that the opportunity to enter the starting port is increased when, for example, a short-time gaming state is established. And when a game state changes from a time-saving game state to a non-time-saving game state, it is comprised so that it may alert | report to a player over a predetermined period that it is necessary to change a stroke. As a result, the player changes the stroke according to the gaming state, and the monotonousness of the game can be eliminated.

JP 2004-16714 A

  However, in the gaming machine that changes the stroke according to the gaming state as described above, when the gaming state changes from the time-saving gaming state to the non-time saving gaming state, by notifying the player that the stroke needs to be changed, Although the player can recognize that the stroke needs to be changed, even when the stroke is changed, the notification is given until the predetermined period elapses. Such notification is made with a relatively loud sound, so it is kind to a player who lacks knowledge about the gaming machine, but it becomes annoying and troublesome for the player after changing the stroke. There was a problem.

  In view of the above background, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can eliminate troublesomeness given to a player while providing useful information to the player.

  According to the present invention, the firing strength of the game ball changes according to the operation amount of the operation handle operated when the game ball is launched, and the game ball launched on the game board enters the start opening provided on the game board. The game data is acquired in response to the ball, and a lottery for acquiring the right to execute the special game capable of acquiring a prize ball is performed, and the winning probability for acquiring the right to execute the special game is set to a preset probability. A gaming machine comprising control means for controlling the progress of a game in a controlled low probability gaming state or a high probability gaming state in which the winning probability is higher than the low probability gaming state, The handle is provided with an operation amount detecting means for detecting an operation amount of the operation handle. The start opening is a first start opening, and a game ball launched to enter the first start opening can enter. And the game ball is A first start port that is controlled to a first mode that is impossible or has a small chance of entering a ball and a second mode that has a larger number of opportunities to enter the game ball than the first mode; The second start port can be shifted to the short-time game state in which the second start port is controlled to the second mode higher than the first mode until the predetermined condition is satisfied after the end of the specific special game, An informing means for informing the player to change the amount of operation of the operating handle over a predetermined period upon completion of the short-time gaming state by satisfying a predetermined condition, and an informing stop means for terminating the informing The notification stop means is an operation that enables the operation amount detected by the operation amount detection means to enter the second starting port when the notification is performed by the notification means. Enter the first start port from the amount In response to having been modified to allow to become operation amount, and executes a control to terminate the notification being performed by the notification unit.

  The start port is provided on the game board for both the first start port and the second start port, and is configured such that a game ball launched into the game area can enter or pass through, and the game ball enters or passes through. The configuration is not particularly limited as long as it can be detected. However, the starting port of the present invention must be such that at least one of the starting ports has an opportunity for entering a game ball to change in at least two stages, and the first mode has relatively few opportunities for entering the ball, It must be movably controlled to the second mode in which the chances of entering the ball are relatively greater than those in the first mode. The first start port and the second start port must be arranged in a positional relationship that cannot enter the other start port in the case of a game ball launched at a launch intensity that allows entry into one of the start ports. Don't be. When the starting port is controlled to the first mode, it may be impossible to enter a game ball.

The special symbol indicates a game state after that. That is, the special symbol is associated with the subsequent gaming state, and is determined by lottery on the condition that the gaming ball has entered the starting port.
The special symbol change display means that the lottery result is notified to the player by displaying the special symbol determined by the special symbol determining means. It takes a predetermined time from when the special symbol starts to change until it is finally stopped. From the start of the change to the final display of the special symbol, that is, the display to the player during the change is not essential, and even if no display is made to the player during the change, the present invention It is included in the change display of the special symbol.

  The jackpot symbol indicates what kind of jackpot game is executed and what kind of gaming state the subsequent gaming state becomes. Therefore, when the jackpot symbol is determined, the jackpot game corresponding to the jackpot symbol is executed, and the gaming state after the jackpot game is ended is set to the gaming state corresponding to the jackpot symbol. The gaming state determined by the jackpot symbol is, for example, a low probability gaming state in which the probability of the jackpot symbol being determined in subsequent games is relatively low, and a probability that the jackpot symbol is determined in comparison with the low probability gaming state is relative High-probability gaming states, short-time gaming states, non-short-time gaming states (states that are not short-time gaming states), and the like.

  Changing the operation amount of the operation handle means changing the firing strength at which the game ball is launched by adjusting (adjusting) the operation handle.

  The notification means notifies the player to adjust the operation handle when the predetermined condition is satisfied and the short-time gaming state is ended. This notification is, for example, by using a voice output device or the like to output a sound such as “Please turn right”, “Please change to left”, “Please stop right”, The notification timing and the notification method are not limited to the above, and may be an alarm sound (warning sound) or the like.

  According to the present invention, the second start port is arranged at a position where a game ball launched to enter the first start port cannot enter, and the second start port is a game ball in the short-time game state. The chance of entering a game ball is set to be low in other game states. When the short-time gaming state changes to a gaming state in which a game ball enters the second starting port is low, a notification that prompts the player to adjust the operation handle is given over a predetermined period. Further, when this notification is being performed, the player adjusts the operation handle according to the notification, and the operation amount at that time is a predetermined operation amount (that is, the operation amount that allows the first start opening to enter the ball). ), The notification ends. Therefore, when a notification for urging the adjustment of the operation handle is made in accordance with a change in the gaming state, a notification is sent to the player who has continuously launched the game ball toward the second starting port without adjusting the operation handle. On the other hand, the notification can be terminated to the player who has started to launch the game ball toward the first start port by adjusting the operation handle. Therefore, the troublesomeness given to the player can be eliminated while providing useful information to the player.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine in a first embodiment. It is the elements on larger scale of Drawing 1, and is a figure showing the opening-and-closing state of a starting mouth. FIG. 3 is a block diagram of control means in the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing main programs stored in a ROM of a main control board in the first embodiment. It is a figure which shows the main programs stored in ROM of the other board | substrate in Embodiment 1. FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing main storage areas provided in the RAM of the main control board in the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a routine process in the main control board in the first embodiment. 3 is a flowchart showing a game ball launch process on the main control board in the first embodiment. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an applied voltage conversion table according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a winning gate passing process in the main control board in the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing a normal symbol variation process in the main control board in the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing a second start port process in the main control board in the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing a start opening ball entry process in the main control board in the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram of a special symbol reservation storage area provided in the RAM of the main control board in the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing special symbol variation processing in the main control board in the first embodiment. 5 is a flowchart showing a jackpot determination process in the main control board in the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of each random number and a table for determining each random number in the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing variation pattern selection processing in the main control board in the first embodiment. 3 is a flowchart showing processing during suspension of fluctuation in the main control board in the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing a special winning opening process in the main control board in the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing a jackpot game process in the main control board in the first embodiment. 7 is a flowchart showing a process during opening of a big prize opening in the jackpot game process in the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing a small hit game process in the main control board in the first embodiment. 3 is a flowchart showing output processing on the main control board in the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a routine process in the sub control board in the first embodiment. 6 is a flowchart showing effect execution command reception processing in the sub control board in the first embodiment. 6 is a flowchart showing special game command reception processing in the sub-control board in the first embodiment. 6 is a flowchart showing command reception processing for long hits in the sub control board in the first embodiment. 6 is a flowchart showing a short hit command reception process in the sub-control board in the first embodiment. 6 is a flowchart showing a small hit command receiving process in the sub-control board in the first embodiment. 6 is a flowchart showing a stroke change notification command reception process in the sub control board in the first embodiment. It is a figure which shows the main programs stored in ROM of the main control board in Embodiment 2. FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a routine process in the main control board in the second embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing a game ball launch process on the main control board in the second embodiment.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be specifically described below with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of a gaming machine according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a partially enlarged view of a starting port provided in the gaming machine.
The gaming machine 1 includes a game board 2, and an operation handle 3 is rotatably provided at a lower position of the game board 2. The operation handle 3 is provided with a touch sensor SW3b for detecting that the player has gripped, and a rotation angle detection SW3a for detecting the rotation angle of the operation handle 3 (degree of the rotated operation amount). It has been. When the operation handle 3 is gripped by the player, the touch sensor SW3b detects an ON signal, and when the operation handle 3 is rotated in this state, a voltage corresponding to the detection angle Y of the rotation angle detection SW3a is applied. This is applied to a launching solenoid 4a (see FIG. 3) provided in the game ball launching mechanism. When a voltage is applied to the firing solenoid 4a, a plunger (not shown) inserted into the firing solenoid 4a presses a hammer end (not shown) for launching a game ball. The hammer is rotatably supported and is urged in one rotational direction by a spring, and is pressed in a direction opposite to the urging force of the spring by a plunger. When the voltage applied to the firing solenoid 4a is cut off after a predetermined time has elapsed, the hammer is rotated by the restoring force of the spring and the game ball is launched by the other end of the hammer. Thereby, a game ball is launched with a strength corresponding to the rotation operation angle of the operation handle 3.
The rotation angle detection SW 3a corresponds to the operation amount detection means of the present invention.

The game ball fired as described above rises between the rails 5 a and 5 b and reaches the upper position of the game board 2, and then falls within the game area 6. At this time, the game ball falls unpredictably by a plurality of nails and windmills (not shown) provided in the game area 6.
The game area 6 is provided with a plurality of normal winning openings 7. Each of the normal winning holes 7 is provided with a normal winning hole detection SW 7a. When the normal winning hole detection SW 7a detects the entry of a game ball, a predetermined winning ball (for example, 10 game balls) is paid out. It is.

  Furthermore, a winning gate 8 is provided at the right position of the game area 6 so as to pass the game ball. The winning gate 8 is provided with a gate detection SW 8a for detecting the passage of the game ball. When the gate detection SW 8a detects the passage of the game ball, a lottery of a normal symbol, which will be described later, is performed.

Further, a lower start position of the game area 6 is provided with a first start port 9 through which a game ball can enter, similarly to the normal winning port 7. A second start port 10 is provided diagonally to the right of the first start port 9. The second start opening is arranged at a position where the game ball can be entered only in a state where the game ball is strongly launched toward the right side of the game area 6, that is, in a so-called right-handed state, and is aimed at the first start opening. It is impossible to accept game balls. As shown in FIG. 2A, the second starting port 10 has a pair of movable pieces 10b, and the first mode in which the pair of movable pieces 10b is maintained in a closed state, and FIG. As shown in b), the pair of movable pieces 10b are controlled to move to the second mode in which the pair of movable pieces 10b are in the open state. When the second starting port 10 is controlled in the first mode, the nail disposed immediately above the second starting port 10 becomes an obstacle, making it impossible or difficult to receive the game ball. It is said. On the other hand, when the second starting port 10 is controlled to the second mode, the pair of movable pieces 10b function as a tray, and it is easy to enter the game ball into the second starting port 10. That is, when the second start port 10 is in the first mode, there is almost no opportunity for entering a game ball, and when the second start port 10 is in the second mode, the opportunity for entering a game ball is increased.
The first start port 9 and the second start port 10 are provided with a first start port detection SW 9a and a second start port detection SW 10a for detecting the entrance of a game ball, respectively. When the entry of a ball is detected, a lottery for acquiring a right to execute a jackpot game, which will be described later (hereinafter referred to as a “hit lottery”), is performed. Also, when the detection SWs 9a and 10a detect the entry of a game ball, a predetermined prize ball (for example, 4 game balls) is paid out.
The first start port 9 and the second start port 10 correspond to the start port of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 1, a special winning opening 11 is provided further below the second starting opening 10. The special winning opening 11 is normally kept closed by the special winning opening / closing door 11b, and it is impossible to enter a game ball. On the other hand, when a special game, which will be described later, is started, the special prize opening / closing door 11b is opened, and the special prize opening / closing door 11b functions as a tray for guiding the game ball into the special winning opening 11, A game ball can enter the big prize opening 11. The big prize opening 11 is provided with a big prize opening detection SW 11a, and when the big prize opening detection SW 11a detects the entry of a game ball, a predetermined prize ball (for example, 15 game balls) is paid out. .
The player does not enter any of the normal winning port 7, the first starting port 9, the second starting port 10, and the grand winning port 11 further below the above-mentioned grand winning port 11, that is, at the bottom of the game area 6. A discharge port 12 is provided for discharging the game balls.

In addition, the game board 2 is provided with an effect device for performing various effects.
Specifically, an effect display device 13 composed of a liquid crystal display (LCD) or the like is provided at a substantially central portion of the game area 6, and an effect agent device is provided on the right side of the effect display device 13. 14 and 15 are provided. Further, an effect lighting device 16 is provided at both the upper position and the lower position of the game board 2, and an effect button 17 is provided on the left side of the operation handle 3.

  The effect display device 13 displays an image while the game is not being performed or displays an image according to the progress of the game. In particular, when a game ball enters the first start port 9 or the second start port 10, the decorative symbol for notifying the player of the lottery result is variably displayed. The decorative symbol is, for example, that three numbers are scroll-displayed, and the scrolling is stopped after a predetermined time, and a specific symbol (number) is displayed in an array. As a result, while the symbols are being scrolled, the player is given an impression that the lottery is currently being performed, and the player is notified of the lottery result by the symbols displayed when the scrolling is stopped. By displaying various images, characters, and the like during the decorative display of the decorative symbols, the player is given a high expectation that they may win a jackpot.

The stage effect devices 14 and 15 give the player a sense of expectation according to their operation modes. In the first embodiment, the director device 14 is composed of a movable device in the shape of a person's face, and the director is the director device 15. The stage effect device 14 moves, for example, in the left-right direction or protrudes to the front side of the gaming machine 1. In addition, the production effect device 15 is configured such that the opening degree of the bag is variably controlled. Various expectation feelings are given to the player by the combination of the operation modes of these effect actor devices 14 and 15 and the operations of both effect actor devices 14 and 15.
In addition, the effect lighting device 16 includes a plurality of lights 16a, and performs various effects while changing the light irradiation direction and emission color of each light 16a.

Further, an effect button 17 that can be pressed by the player is provided on the left side of the operation handle 3. For example, the effect button 17 is effective only when a message for operating the effect button 17 is displayed on the effect display device 13. The effect button 17 is provided with an effect button detection SW 17a. When the effect button detection SW 17a detects an operation of the player, a further effect is executed in accordance with this operation.
Further, although not shown in FIG. 1, the gaming machine 1 is provided with an audio output device 18 (see FIG. 3) formed of a speaker, and in addition to the above-described effect devices, a sound effect is also performed. ing.

Below the game area 6, the first special symbol display 19, the second special symbol display 20, the normal symbol display 21, the first hold indicator 22, the second hold indicator 23, the normal symbol hold display A vessel 24 is provided.
The first special symbol display 19 is for notifying a lottery result of a jackpot that is performed when a game ball enters the first start port 9. That is, a plurality of special symbols corresponding to the jackpot lottery result are provided, and the lottery result is notified to the player by displaying the special symbol corresponding to the jackpot lottery result on the first special symbol display 19. I am doing so. For example, “7” is displayed when the jackpot is won, and “−” is displayed when the player wins. “7” and “−” displayed in this way are special symbols, but these special symbols are not displayed immediately, but are displayed in a stopped state after being displayed for a predetermined time. .

  More specifically, when a game ball enters the first starting port 9, a jackpot lottery will be performed. However, the jackpot lottery result is not immediately notified to the player, and a predetermined time is passed. The player is notified when it has passed. Therefore, until the predetermined time elapses, the first special symbol display 19 displays a display (variation display) as if the lottery is currently being performed, such as blinking an LED. When a predetermined time has elapsed, a special symbol corresponding to the jackpot lottery result is stopped and displayed so that the player is notified of the lottery result. The second special symbol display 20 is used for notifying a lottery result of a jackpot performed when a game ball has entered the second starting port 10, and the display mode is the above-described first display. This is the same as the special symbol display mode in the special symbol display 19.

  The normal symbol display 21 is for notifying the lottery result of the normal symbol that is performed when the game ball passes through the winning gate 8. As will be described in detail later, when the winning symbol is won by the normal symbol lottery, the normal symbol display 21 is turned on, and then the second starting port 10 is controlled to the second mode for a predetermined time. Note that this normal symbol is not immediately notified of the lottery result when the game ball passes through the winning gate 8, and the normal symbol display 21 blinks until a predetermined time elapses. Fluctuation is displayed.

Furthermore, when a special ball is displayed in the first starting port 9 or the second starting port 10 during a special symbol variation display or during a special game to be described later, the special symbol variation display cannot be performed immediately. The right to display special symbols is reserved under the above conditions. More specifically, the right to display the variable symbol of the special symbol in which the game ball enters and is retained at the first start port 9 is retained as the first hold (U ₁ ), and the game ball enters the second start port 10. The right of variable display of special symbols retained as a ball is reserved as the second reservation (U ₂ ).
For both of these holds, the upper limit reserved number is set to four, and the reserved number is displayed on the first hold indicator 22 and the second hold indicator 23, respectively. When there is one first hold (U ₁ ), the LED on the left side of the first hold indicator 22 is lit, and when there are two first holds (U ₁ ), the first hold indicator 22 The two LEDs turn on. Further, when there are three first holds (U ₁ ), the left LED of the first hold indicator 22 blinks and the right LED is lit, and when there are four first holds (U ₁ ). The two LEDs of the first hold indicator 22 blink. Further, on the second hold indicator 23, the reserved number of the second hold (U ₂ ) is displayed in the same manner as described above.
The upper limit reserved number of normal symbols is also set to four, and the reserved number is displayed on the normal symbol hold indicator 24 in the same manner as the first hold indicator 22 and the second hold indicator 23. Is done.

(Internal structure of control means)
Next, control means for controlling the progress of the game will be described with reference to FIG. In the first embodiment, the control means 100 includes a main control board 101, a sub control board 102, a prize ball control board 103, a lamp control board 104, an effect control board 105, and a launch control board 106.

  The main control board 101 controls the basic operation of the game. The main control board 101 includes a CPU 101a, a ROM 101b, and a RAM 101c. The CPU 101a reads out a program stored in the ROM 101b based on an input signal from each detection SW or timer, performs arithmetic processing, directly controls each device or display, or according to the result of the arithmetic processing. Send commands to other boards. The RAM 101c functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the CPU 101a. It should be noted that the command transmitted here includes a permission signal as to whether or not to perform game ball launch control.

To the input side of the main control board 101, a normal winning opening detection SW 7a, a gate detection SW 8a, a first starting opening detection SW 9a, a second starting opening detection SW 10a, and a large winning opening detection SW 11a are connected, and a game ball is detected. A signal is input to the main control board 101. Further, on the main control board, input signals of the rotation angle detection SW 3 a and the touch sensor SW 3 b input to the launch control board 106 are input via the prize ball control board 103.
Further, an accessory operating device 25 is connected to the output side of the main control board 101. The accessory actuating device 25 includes a second start opening / closing solenoid 10c for opening / closing the pair of movable pieces 10b of the second start opening 10 and a large winning opening opening / closing solenoid 11c for opening / closing the large winning opening opening / closing door 11b. Composed.

  The sub-control board 102 mainly controls each effect such as during game or standby. The sub control board 102 includes a CPU 102a, a ROM 102b, and a RAM 102c, and is connected to the main control board 101 so as to be able to communicate in one direction from the main control board 101 to the sub control board 102. The CPU 102a reads out a program stored in the ROM 101b based on a command transmitted from the main control board 101 or an input signal from the effect button detection SW 17a or the timer, performs arithmetic processing, and based on the processing. The command is transmitted to the lamp control board 104 or the effect control board 105. The RAM 102c functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the CPU 102a.

  The prize ball control board 103 performs prize ball payout control. The prize ball control board 103 includes a CPU 103a, a ROM 103b, and a RAM 103c, and is connected to the main control board 101 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication. On the output side of the prize ball control board 103, a prize ball payout device 26 having a motor or the like for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls from the game ball storage unit to the player is connected. Based on the command transmitted from the main control board 101, the CPU 103a reads a predetermined program from the ROM 103b to perform arithmetic processing, and controls the prize ball payout device 26 to pay out a predetermined prize ball to the player. At this time, the RAM 103c functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the CPU 103a.

  The lamp control board 104 includes a CPU 104a, a ROM 104b, and a RAM 104c in the same manner as the above boards, and controls lighting of the effect lighting device 16 provided on the game board 2 and changes the light irradiation direction. Drive control for the motor. In addition, energization control is performed on a drive source such as a solenoid or a motor for operating the production actors 14 and 15. The lamp control board 104 is connected to the sub-control board 102, and performs the above-described controls based on the command transmitted from the sub-control board 102.

The effect control board 105 is an image CPU 105 a ₁ , an image ROM 105 b ₁ , an image RAM 105 c ₁ , a VRAM 105 d for performing image display control of the effect display device 13, and a sound CPU 105 a ₂ for performing sound output control of the sound output device 18. Voice ROM 105b ₂ and voice RAM 105c ₂ . The effect control board 105 is connected to the sub control board 102 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication, and the effect display device 13 and the audio output device 18 are connected to the output side thereof.

The image ROM 105b ₁ stores a large number of image data such as decorative symbols and backgrounds displayed on the effect display device 13, and the image CPU 105a ₁ stores a predetermined program based on a command transmitted from the sub-control board 102. It reads, reads the predetermined image data from ROM105b ₁ to VRAM105d, the display control of the performance display device 13. The image CPU 105a ₁ executes various image processing such as background image display processing, decoration symbol display processing, and character image display processing on the effect display device 13, but the background image, decoration symbol image, and character image are effected. The image is superimposed on the display screen of the display device 13.
That is, the decorative design image and the character image are displayed so as to be seen in front of the background image. At this time, if the background image and the design image overlap at the same position, the design image is preferentially stored in the VRAM 105d by referring to the Z value of the Z buffer of each image data by a known hidden surface removal method such as the Z buffer method. .

The audio ROM 105b ₂ stores a large amount of audio data output from the audio output device 18, and the audio CPU 105a ₂ reads a predetermined program based on a command transmitted from the sub-control board 102. The sound output control in the sound output device 18 is performed.

The launch control board 106 controls the launch of the game ball. The launch control board 106 is connected to the prize ball control board 103 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication. A rotation angle detection SW 3 a and a touch sensor SW 3 b are connected to the input side of the firing control board 106, and a detection signal of the operation handle 3 is input to the firing control board 106. The detection signal detected here is transmitted to the main control board 101 via the prize ball control board 103.
A launch solenoid 4a for launching a game ball is connected to the output side of the launch control board 106. The firing control board 106 is used for launching based on the permission signal transmitted from the main control board 101 via the prize ball control board 103 and the detection signals of the rotation angle detection SW3a and the touch sensor SW3b input to the firing control board 106. The solenoid 4a is energized and controlled.

(Main programs stored in the ROM of the main control board)
FIG. 4 shows an example of a main program stored in the ROM 101b of the main control board 101 that controls the progress of the game. FIG. 5 shows a sub-control board 102, a lamp control board 104, and an effect control board 105 that control the effects. An example of main programs stored in each ROM is shown. Note that the programs shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 are only listed as examples of programs that perform characteristic control among the controls in the first embodiment. Many illustrated programs are provided.

  As shown in FIG. 4, a normal symbol processing program 200 is stored in the ROM 101 b of the main control board 101 as a program that functions when a game ball passes the winning gate 8. The ROM 101b stores a winning gate passage processing program 201, a normal symbol variation processing program 202, and a second start port control program 203 that function as subprograms of the normal symbol processing program 200. Furthermore, the ROM 101b includes a winning random number lottery program 201a that functions as a subprogram of the winning gate passage processing program 201, a winning random number determination program 202a that functions as a subprogram of the normal symbol variation processing program 202, and a variation time setting program. 202b, a normal symbol variation display program 202c, and an open time setting program 203a that functions as a subprogram of the second start port control program 203 are stored.

  In addition, the ROM 101b stores a special symbol processing program 220 as a program that functions when a game ball enters the first start port 9 or the second start port 10 as a trigger. In addition, the ROM 101b stores a starting opening ball processing program 221 and a special symbol variation processing program 222 that function as subprograms of the special symbol processing program 220. Further, the ROM 101b stores a special symbol holding number count program 221a, a jackpot random number lottery program 221b, a symbol random number lottery program 221c, and a reach random number lottery program 221d that function as subprograms of the starting entrance ball processing program 221. Yes. Further, the ROM 101b includes a jackpot determination processing program 222a, a variation pattern selection processing program 222b, a variation random number lottery program 222c, a special symbol variation display program 222d, and a variation suspension process that function as a subprogram of the special symbol variation processing program 222. A program 222e, a variation count program 222f, a flag deletion program 222g, a stroke change notification flag addition program 222h, and a stroke change notification flag deletion program 222i are stored.

  The ROM 101b stores a special game processing program 240 as a program that functions during a special game described later. Further, the ROM 101b has a special prize processing program 241 that functions as a subprogram of the special game processing program 240, and a jackpot game processing program 241a that functions as a subprogram of the special prize processing program 241; a flag addition program 241b; A flag erasure program 241c, a short time duration setting program 241d, and a small hit game processing program 241e are stored.

The ROM 101b stores a game ball launching processing program 250 that controls energization of the launching solenoid 4a based on input signals from the touch sensor SW3b and the rotation angle detection SW3a.
The ROM 101b stores an output processing program 260 for transmitting commands determined by the above programs to the sub control board 102, the prize ball control board 103, or an external connection device (not shown). The external connection device is, for example, provided adjacent to the gaming machine 1, a ball rental device for lending a gaming ball to the gaming machine 1, or provided above the gaming machine 1, It is a display device that displays the number of jackpots or the like, or a hall computer for grasping the progress of each gaming machine.

(Main programs stored in ROM on other boards)
The ROM 102b of the sub control board 102 stores an effect execution command reception processing program 320 as a program that functions when receiving an effect execution command (described later) transmitted from the main control board 101. The ROM 102b stores an effect random number lottery program 321 and an effect random number determination process program 322 that function as subprograms of the effect execution command reception processing program 320.
The ROM 102b stores a special game command reception processing program 330 as a program that functions when a special game command (described later) transmitted from the main control board 101 is received. The ROM 102b also includes a long hit command reception processing program 331, a short hit command reception processing program 332, and a small hit command reception processing program that function as subprograms of the special game command reception processing program 330. 333 is stored.
The ROM 102b stores a stroke change notification command reception processing program 334 as a program that functions when a later-described stroke change notification command transmitted from the main control board 101 is received. The ROM 102b stores a stroke change notification command erasing program 334a that functions as a subprogram of the stroke change notification command reception program 334.
Further, the ROM 102 b stores an effect command transmission program 335 for transmitting an effect command determined on the sub control board 102 to the lamp control board 104 and the effect control board 105.

The image ROM105b ₁ of performance control board 105, as a program that functions upon receiving the transmitted presentation commands from the sub-control board 102, effect display apparatus control program 341 is stored. The effect display device control program 341 is classified into a decorative symbol variation display program 342, a long hit game effect control program 343, and a short hit / small hit game effect control program 344. The audio ROM 105b ₂ of the effect control board 105 stores an audio output device control program 345 as a program that functions when an effect command transmitted from the sub-control board 102 is received.
In addition, the ROM 104b of the lamp control board 104 stores an effect actor device operation program 360 and an effect lighting device control program 361 as programs that function when an effect command transmitted from the sub-control board 102 is received. ing.

(Main storage area of main control board RAM)
The RAM 101c of the main control board 101 mainly has a storage area shown in FIG. The storage areas listed below are merely examples, and many other storage areas are provided.
The RAM 101c includes a normal symbol reservation number (G) storage area 400, a normal symbol reservation storage area 401, a first special symbol reservation number (U ₁ ) storage area 402a, a second special symbol reservation number (U ₂ ) storage area 402b, 1st special symbol holding storage area 403a, 2nd special symbol holding storage area 403b, remaining fluctuation count (X) storage area 406 of high probability gaming state, remaining fluctuation count (J) storage area 407 of short-time gaming state, round gaming count (R) A storage area 408, a number of winning prize entrance (C) storage area 409, and a game state storage area 410 are provided. The game state storage area 410 includes an auxiliary game start flag storage area 410a, a short time game flag storage area 410b, a high probability game flag storage area 410c, a long hit game start flag storage area 410d, a short hit game start flag storage area 410e, A small hit game start flag storage area 410f and a stroke change notification flag storage area 410g are provided.
Further, the RAM 101c is provided with a remaining change count (H) storage area 411 and a game ball launch information storage area 411a of the stroke change notification state.

(Description of gaming state)
Next, the gaming state when the game progresses will be described. In the first embodiment, any one of “low probability gaming state”, “high probability gaming state”, “time / short gaming state”, “non-time / short gaming state”, “long winning gaming state”, “short winning gaming state”, and “small winning gaming state” The game progresses in that game state. However, if the game state is “low probability game state” or “high probability game state” while the game is in progress, it is always “time-short game state” or “non-time-short game state”. In other words, there are cases of “low probability gaming state” and “short-time gaming state” and “low probability gaming state” and “non-short-time gaming state”. . Note that the gaming state when the game is started, that is, the initial gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is “low probability gaming state” and is set to “non-temporary gaming state”. 1 is referred to as “normal gaming state”.

In the first embodiment, the “low probability gaming state” means that in the jackpot lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has entered the first starting port 9 or the second starting port 10, the winning probability of the jackpot is 2 The game state set to / 601. The jackpot winning here is to acquire a right to execute a “long win game” or a “short win game” which will be described later.
On the other hand, the “high probability gaming state” means a gaming state in which the jackpot winning probability is set to 20/601. Therefore, in the “high probability gaming state”, it is easier to acquire the right to execute “game per long” or “game per short” than in the “low probability gaming state”.

  In the first embodiment, the “non-short game state” means that in the normal symbol lottery performed on the condition that the game ball has passed through the winning gate 8, the time required for the lottery is set as long as 29 seconds, and The game state in which the opening control time of the second starting port 10 when winning is won is set to be as short as 0.2 seconds. That is, when a game ball passes through the winning gate 8, a normal symbol lottery is performed, and the lottery result is determined 29 seconds after the lottery is started. If the lottery result is a win, then the second start port 10 is controlled to the second mode for about 0.2 seconds.

On the other hand, the “short-time gaming state” means that the time required for the normal symbol lottery is 3 seconds, which is shorter than the “non-short-time gaming state”, and the second starting point when winning in the win A game state in which the release control time of 10 is set to 3.5 seconds, which is longer than the “non-short game state”.
In the first embodiment, the probability of winning in the normal symbol lottery is set to 90%, and this winning probability is set in any of the “non-short-time gaming state” and the “short-time gaming state”. Even if there is, it does not change. Therefore, in the “short-time gaming state”, the second starting port 10 is more easily controlled to the second mode as long as the game ball passes through the winning gate 8 than in the “non-short-time gaming state”. As a result, in the “short-time gaming state”, the player can proceed with the game without consuming the game balls, but this is the original purpose of the “short-time gaming state”.
However, in the “short-time gaming state”, the above-mentioned purpose of providing the “short-time gaming state” may be achieved by making the winning probability in the normal symbol lottery higher than the “non-short-time gaming state”. I do not care.

In the first embodiment, the “long hit gaming state” means that a long hit game is executed in a jackpot lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 9 or the second start port 10. A game state executed when a right is acquired.
In the “long hit gaming state”, a round game in which the special winning opening 11 is opened is performed 15 times in total. The total opening time of the grand prize opening 11 in each round game is set to a maximum of 30 seconds. If a predetermined number of game balls (for example, nine) enter the big prize opening 11 during this period, one round game will be played. End. In other words, the “long hit game state” is a game state in which a game ball enters the big winning opening 11 and a player can acquire a prize ball corresponding to the winning ball, so that a large number of prize balls can be acquired. is there.

In the first embodiment, the “short win game state” means that a short win game is executed in a jackpot lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 9 or the second start port 10. A game state executed when a right is acquired.
In the “short win game state”, a round game in which the special winning opening 11 is opened is performed twice in total. However, in each round game, the big prize opening 11 is opened only once, and the opening time is set to 0.1 seconds. During this time, when a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 9 balls) enter the big prize opening 11, one round game is finished. However, since the opening time of the big prize opening 11 is extremely short as described above, Hardly enters, and even if a game ball enters, only one or two game balls enter in one round game. Even in the “short win game state”, when a game ball enters the big winning opening 11, a predetermined prize ball (for example, 15 game balls) is paid out.

In the first embodiment, the “small winning game state” means that a small winning game is executed in the big winning lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has entered the first starting port 9 or the second starting port 10. A game state executed when a right is acquired.
Also in the “small winning game state”, as in the above “short winning game state”, the big winning opening 11 is opened twice. The opening time, opening / closing timing, and opening / closing mode of the special winning opening 11 at this time are the same as the “short hit gaming state”, or the player determines whether the “small hit gaming state” and the “short hit gaming state”. Is approximated to the extent impossible or difficult. However, when a game ball enters the special winning opening 11, a predetermined prize ball (for example, 15 game balls) is paid out in the same manner as described above.
Note that the opening pattern of the big winning opening in the small hit game does not necessarily have to approximate the opening pattern of the big winning opening in the short hit game. In the present invention, the opening pattern of the big prize opening may be completely different between the small win game and the short win game, or only the small hit game is provided without providing the short win game. It doesn't matter.

In the first embodiment, the “long win game” and the “short win game” are referred to as “big hit game”, and the “big hit game” and the “small hit game” are collectively referred to as “special game”. "
In the main control board 101, a flag is stored in the gaming state storage area 410 of the RAM 101c so as to grasp which gaming state is the above gaming state.
Further, the change from the normal gaming state to any one of the above gaming states is a case where “big hit” is won as a result of the big hit lottery. In the first embodiment, a plurality of types of “hits” are provided, and the gaming state thereafter changes according to the type of the “hits” won. However, once a “big hit” is won and the game state is changed to one of the above game states, the game returns to the normal game state after a big win lottery, that is, a special symbol variation display is performed a predetermined number of times. The “big hit” provided in the first embodiment will be described below.

(Description of jackpot type)
In the first embodiment, "per length with a high probability time", "per length with a short time", "short per time with a high probability time", "short per time with a normal time", "short per short time with a high probability", There are six types of jackpots, “normal short and short hits”.

  “High probability per short with length” means that three game profits are given. If this “per-long with high probability” is selected, the first gaming profit will be the “game-per-long” state, and the player can acquire a large amount of prize balls. When this “long-run gaming state” ends, the game proceeds in the “high probability gaming state” as the second gaming profit, and in the “short-time gaming state” as the third gaming profit. The game progresses. As a result, the player can win a large number of prize balls, and after winning the prize balls, can reduce the consumption of the game balls and realize a big win again early. In the first embodiment, the “high probability gaming state” and the “short-time gaming state” are continued until the special symbol variation display is performed a maximum of 10,000 times. Therefore, from the viewpoint of the probability, the “high probability gaming state” and the “time-short gaming state” will continue until the jackpot is won again.

“Regular per length with a short time” means that two game profits are given. If this “normal per short-length long” is won, the first gaming profit is the “long-per-game state”, and the player can acquire a large number of prize balls. Further, when the “long hit gaming state” ends, the game proceeds in the “short time gaming state” as the second gaming profit. However, it is different from the above “per length with high probability time reduction” in that the game proceeds in the “low probability gaming state” instead of the “high probability gaming state” after the “long winning gaming state”. In addition, when the “per game with a short time” is won and the “short time gaming state” is entered, the “short time gaming state” ends when the special symbol is displayed up to 100 times.
As described above, in the first embodiment, after the “long hit gaming state” in which a large amount of prize balls can be obtained, the game proceeds in the “high probability gaming state” with a high jackpot winning probability. A long win and a long win where the game progresses in a “low probability gaming state” in which the winning probability of the jackpot is low is provided.

  "Short win with high probability short-time" means that the gaming state shifts to the above "short winning gaming state", and after the "short winning gaming state" ends, "high-probable gaming state" and "short-short gaming state" The game progresses at. If you win this short chance with high probability, you will not be able to win a large amount of prize balls immediately, but the subsequent gaming state will be a “high probability gaming state”, The chance to win a prize ball increases. In addition, when winning “short win with high probability”, it will be in “short-time gaming state” after the short winning game ends, so it is possible to reduce the consumption of game balls until winning a big win again . In addition, even when this “short win with high probability time reduction” is won, the above “high probability gaming state” and “time saving gaming state” continue until the special symbol variation display is performed 10,000 times at the maximum.

  “Short win with normal time” means that the gaming state shifts to the above “short winning gaming state”, and after the “short winning gaming state”, the game progresses in “shorter gaming state”. is there. As in the case of “Short win with short time with high probability” above, the game state after that will be “Short time game state”, so the consumption of game balls will be reduced until a special symbol is displayed a predetermined number of times. Is possible. However, when the “short win with normal time” is won and the “short time gaming state” is entered, the “short time gaming state” ends when the special symbol is displayed up to 100 times. In addition, in the “low probability gaming state”, if “winning short with normal time” is won, after that, you will enjoy the advantage that the game can proceed in the “short time gaming state” In the “high probability gaming state”, if the winning “short win with normal time” is won, there is a demerit that the player falls into the “low probability gaming state”.

  In the first embodiment, both the “short hit with normal time” and “short win with high probability” have the opening / closing operation of the big prize opening 11 and the second start port after shifting to the “short game state”. 10 open / close operations are the same. Also, as will be described later, the production contents are the same for “short win with normal time” and “short win with high probability”. Therefore, it is very difficult for the player to determine whether the game state is the “high probability game state” or the “low probability game state” after the end of the “short hit game state”. Yes. In this way, by providing a “short win with normal time”, the player is questioned whether the gaming state is “high probability gaming state” or “low probability gaming state”. This makes it possible to enhance the interest of the game.

  “Short per hit without high-probability time” refers to “high-probability gaming state” after the “short-winning gaming state” ends, as in the above “short win with high probability time-short”. However, this “high probability short-time short win” is different from the above “high probability short-time short hit” in that it does not become a “short-time gaming state” after the short-winning game ends. Even if this “high probability short / no short win” is won, a large number of prize balls cannot be obtained immediately. In addition, since it does not become the “short-time gaming state” thereafter, the consumption of the gaming ball is larger than the “short hit with high probability short-time”. However, since the subsequent gaming state becomes the “high probability gaming state”, in the subsequent games, there is a high possibility of winning a large amount of prize balls by winning per long game. In addition, even when this “high probability short-time short win” is won, the “high-probability gaming state” continues until the special symbol change display is performed a maximum of 10,000 times.

  “Normal short no short hit” means that after the “short win gaming state” ends, the game proceeds in the “low probability gaming state”. In other words, even if the “normal short-time short win” is won, neither the “high probability gaming state” nor the “short-time gaming state” is transferred. In addition, since it is impossible to obtain a large number of prize balls depending on the short win game, the player is hardly given any game profits by winning the big hit. The reason for providing such “normal time short hits” is mainly to return the gaming state from the “high probability gaming state” to the “low probability gaming state” without paying out a prize ball. In addition, even if the “low probability short win” in the “low probability gaming state” is won, the gaming state does not change at all. Therefore, if the player is made indistinguishable between “high probability short / short short hit” and “normal short / short short hit”, is the “high probability gaming state” after the short hit game ended? It is possible to raise the interest of the game by making the player doubt about whether or not it is in the “low probability gaming state”.

  In the first embodiment, “small jackpot” is provided separately from “big jackpot”, and when “small jackpot” is won, the subsequent gaming state becomes “small jackpot gaming state”. However, when the “small hit” is won, the gaming state such as the “high probability gaming state” or the “short time gaming state” is not changed after the “small hit gaming state” ends. For example, when “small hit” is won in the “high probability gaming state”, the “high probability gaming state” continues even after the “small hit gaming state” ends.

Next, the progress of the game in the gaming machine 1 will be described using a flowchart showing the control of the control means 100.
FIG. 7 shows main subroutines executed in the main control board 101, and the CPU 101a repeats all the subroutines shown every 0.004 seconds. Here, game ball launch processing → winning gate passage processing → normal symbol variation processing → second start opening processing → start entrance ball processing → special symbol variation processing → large winning mouth processing → prize ball processing → output processing It is assumed that the subroutines are executed in order, but this is for convenience of explanation. Actually, processing performed based on a signal from the detection SW (game ball launching processing, winning gate passing processing, starting entrance ball processing) → variation processing (normal symbol variation processing, special symbol variation processing) → activate an accessory It is desirable that the subroutines are executed in the order of processing (second start-up port processing, special winning opening processing) → prize ball processing → output processing.

(Game ball launch processing)
First, the CPU 101a of the main control board 101 reads the game ball launch processing program 250 from the ROM 101b and performs the game ball launch process shown in FIG.

(Step S101)
The game ball launching processing program first determines whether or not the touch sensor SW3b of the operation handle 3 has detected an ON signal. When the touch sensor SW3b does not detect the ON signal, that is, when the player does not hold the operation handle, the game ball firing process is terminated and the next subroutine is executed.

(Step S102)
If it is determined in step S101 that the touch sensor SW3b detects an ON signal, the detection angle Y of the rotation angle detection SW3a is detected.

(Step S103)
Next, the CPU 101a refers to the applied voltage conversion table stored in the ROM 101b, and determines the voltage to be applied to the firing solenoid 4a based on the detected angle Y detected in step S102.
Here, the determination of the game ball launch intensity performed by the game ball launch processing program 250 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 9 shows an example of the applied voltage conversion table. As shown in this figure, the voltage applied to the firing solenoid 4a is determined based on the detection angle Y of the rotation angle detection SW3a, and the applied voltage also increases in proportion to the detection angle Y of the rotation angle detection SW3a. It is configured.

(Step S104)
Next, the voltage determined in step S103 is applied to the firing solenoid 4a.
The voltage applied to the firing solenoid 4a is cut off after a predetermined time has elapsed, and a game ball is launched.

(Step S105)
Next, the signals detected in step S101 and step S102 are stored in the game ball launch information storage area 411b of the RAM 101c as game ball launch information. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S101 that the touch sensor SW3b has not detected an ON signal, the OFF signal of the touch sensor SW3b is stored in the game ball launch information storage area 411b of the RAM 101c as game ball launch information. .
Thereby, the game ball launch process ends.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, when the player rotates the operation handle 3 so that the rotation angle of the operation handle 3 becomes larger, the voltage applied to the firing solenoid 4a increases and is launched. The strength of the game balls that can be fired is increased. In other words, when the operation amount for rotating the operation handle 3 is increased, the launch intensity of the game ball to be launched is also increased.

(Winning gate passing process)
When the game ball launching process is completed as described above, the winning gate passing time processing program 201 is read from the ROM 101b, and the winning gate passing process shown in FIG. 10 is performed.

(Step S201)
The winning gate passage processing program 201 determines whether the gate detection SW 8a has detected a signal, that is, whether or not the game ball has passed the winning gate 8. If the gate detection SW 8a has not detected a signal, that is, if the game ball has not passed the winning gate 8, the winning gate passing process is terminated and the next subroutine is executed.

(Step S202)
If it is determined in step S201 that the gate detection SW 8a is ON, whether or not the normal symbol hold count (G) stored in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area 400 is less than 4 Judging. As a result, if the number of ordinary symbols held (G) is 4, the winning gate passing process is terminated and the next subroutine is executed.

(Step S203)
If the number of holds (G) is less than 4 in step S202, “1” is added to the current number of holds (G) stored in the normal symbol hold number (G) storage area 400. Remember.

(Step S204)
Next, the CPU 101a reads the winning random number lottery program 201a, which is a subprogram of the winning gate passage processing program 201, and obtains a random number of 1 from random numbers (for example, 0 to 250) prepared in advance. The random number acquired by the winning random number lottery program 201 a is stored in the normal symbol holding storage area 401.
Thereby, the winning gate passing process is completed.

(Normal symbol variation processing)
When the winning gate passing process is completed as described above, the CPU 101a reads the normal symbol variation processing program 202 from the ROM 101b, and performs the normal symbol variation process shown in FIG.

(Step S301)
The normal symbol variation processing program 202 determines whether or not the flag is turned on in the auxiliary game start flag storage area 410a of the RAM 101c. The term “auxiliary game” here means that the second start port 10 is controlled in the second mode, and the case where the flag is turned on in the auxiliary game start flag storage area 410a. This is a case where the second starting port 10 is controlled in the second mode. Therefore, in this step S201, it is determined whether or not the second starting port 10 is being controlled in the second mode. When the flag is turned on in the auxiliary game start flag storage area 410a, that is, when the second start port 10 is controlled to the second mode, the normal symbol variation process is terminated and the next Run a subroutine.

(Step S302)
In step S301, when the flag is not turned on in the auxiliary game start flag storage area 410a, that is, when the second start port 10 is controlled to the first mode, the normal symbol variation display is in progress. Determine whether or not.

(Step S303)
The case where “NO” is determined in both step S301 and step S202 is a case where the second start port 10 is maintained in the first mode and the normal symbol variation display is not performed. is there.
In this case, based on the random number stored in the normal symbol holding storage area 401, the normal symbol variation display can be started. However, when no random number is stored in the normal symbol hold storage area 401, that is, when the hold number (G) is “0”, the normal symbol is not displayed in a variable manner. Is determined to be greater than or equal to “1”. As a result, when the number of holds (G) is “0”, the normal symbol variation process is terminated and the next subroutine is executed.

(Step S304)
In the above step S303, when it is determined that the reserved number (G) is “1” or more, “1” is subtracted from the value (G) stored in the normal symbol reserved number (G) storage area 400. The new number of holds (G) is stored.

(Step S305)
Next, the CPU 101a reads a hit random number determination program 202a that is a subprogram of the normal symbol variation processing program 202, and determines the hit random number stored in the normal symbol hold storage area 401. When a plurality of winning random numbers are stored, the winning random numbers are read in the stored order.
The ROM 101b is provided with a table for determining the hit random number, and the hit random number determination program 202a determines whether or not the read random number is checked against the above table. For example, according to the above table, among the random numbers from “0” to “250”, random numbers from “0” to “224” are determined to be successful, and other random numbers are determined to be lost. That is, in Embodiment 1, the normal symbol winning probability is set to about 90%.

(Step S306) (Step S307) (Step S308)
As a result of the determination of the winning random number in step S305, a winning symbol is set when it is determined that it is a winning (“YES” in step S306), and when it is determined that it is lost (“NO” in step S306), it is lost. A symbol is set.
Here, the winning symbol is a symbol that finally turns on the LED in the normal symbol indicator 21, and the lost symbol is a symbol that finally turns off without turning on the LED. The winning symbol set is to store a command to turn on the LED in the normal symbol display 21 in a predetermined storage area, and the lost symbol set is a command to turn off the LED in the normal symbol display 21. Is stored in a predetermined storage area.

(Step S309)
Next, the normal symbol variation processing program 202 determines whether or not a flag is turned on in the time-saving game flag storage area 410b. The case where the flag is turned on in the short-time game flag storage area 410b is when the gaming state is in the short-time gaming state, and the case where the flag is not turned on is when the gaming state is a non-short-time gaming state ( In a state that is not in the short-time gaming state).

(Step S310)
If it is determined in step S309 that the flag has been turned on in the time-saving game flag storage area 410b, the CPU 101a reads the variation time setting program 202b and sets the variation time to 3 seconds.

(Step S311)
On the other hand, when it is determined that the flag is not turned on in the short-time game flag storage area 410b, the CPU 101a reads the variation time setting program 202b and sets the variation time to 29 seconds. By the process of step S310 or step S311, the time for displaying the normal symbol variation is determined.

(Step S312)
When the fluctuation time is set as described above, the CPU 101a reads the normal symbol fluctuation display program 202c and starts the normal symbol fluctuation display on the normal symbol display 21. In the normal symbol variation display, the normal symbol display 21 blinks the LED at a predetermined interval, and gives the player an impression as if it is currently being drawn. This normal symbol variation display is continuously performed for the time set in step S310 or step S311.

(Step S313)
In addition, the normal symbol variation processing program 202 starts normal symbol variation display in step S312, and also starts time measurement.
As a result, the normal symbol variation process ends.

(Step S314)
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S302 that the normal symbol variation display is being performed, that is, when the normal symbol variation display is performed when the CPU 101a starts the normal symbol variation processing, the setting is made. It is determined whether the fluctuation time has elapsed. That is, in the first embodiment, all routine processes in the main control board 101 are performed every 0.004 seconds. The case where “YES” is determined in step S302 is a case where the processing of step S301 to step S313 is performed by the routine processing performed before the routine processing. Accordingly, in this step S314, it is determined whether or not the variation time (3 seconds or 29 seconds) set by the routine processing performed before that time has elapsed. As a result, if it is determined that the set variation time has not elapsed, it is necessary to continue the variation display as it is, so the normal symbol variation process is terminated and the next subroutine is executed.

(Step S315)
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S314 that the set variation time has elapsed, the CPU 101a reads the normal symbol variation display program 202c and stops the variation of the ordinary symbol on the ordinary symbol display 21. At this time, the normal symbol display unit 21 stops and displays the normal symbol (hit symbol or lost symbol) set by the previous routine processing. As a result, the result of the normal symbol lottery is notified to the player.

(Step S316)
If the variation of the normal symbol is stopped in the above step S315, the variation time set by the routine processing before that is reset.

(Step S317) (Step S318)
If the set normal symbol is a winning symbol, in step S318, the auxiliary game start flag storage area 410b is turned on, and the normal symbol variation process is terminated. As a result, the auxiliary game is started in the second start port process which is a subroutine to be executed next. On the other hand, if the set normal symbol is a lost symbol, the normal symbol variation process is terminated as it is.

(Second start-up process)
When the normal symbol variation process ends as described above, the CPU 101a reads the second start port control program 203 from the ROM 101b, and performs the second start port process shown in FIG.

(Step S401)
The second start port control program 203 first determines whether or not the flag is turned on in the auxiliary game start flag storage area 410a. There are the following two cases where the flag is turned on in the auxiliary game start flag storage area 410a. One is a case where the auxiliary game is not started at the start of the routine process but the auxiliary game is started by the routine process. That is, the auxiliary game start flag is turned on in step S220 of the normal symbol variation process performed immediately before the second start-up process is performed. In this case, although the auxiliary game start flag is ON, the auxiliary game has not yet started. The other is a case where an auxiliary game has already been executed at the start of the routine processing.
When it is determined that the flag is not turned on in the auxiliary game start flag storage area 410a, the second start port process is terminated and the next subroutine is executed.

(Step S402)
In step S301, when it is determined that the flag is turned on in the auxiliary game start flag storage area 410a, the second start port control program 203 determines whether or not the auxiliary game is being performed. If an auxiliary game has already been executed, the process of step S308 described later is performed.

(Step S403)
When it is determined in step S402 that the auxiliary game has not yet been executed, that is, as described above, when the auxiliary game is not started at the start of the routine process but the auxiliary game is started by the routine process. The CPU 101a reads the second start port control program 203, and determines whether or not the flag is turned on in the time-saving game flag storage area 410b.

(Step S404)
When it is determined in step S403 that the flag is turned on in the short time game flag storage area 410b, that is, when the current game state is the short time game state, the CPU 101a reads the release time setting program 203a and releases it. Set the time to 3.5 seconds. Here, the opening time is a time for controlling the pair of movable pieces 10b of the second start port 10 to the second mode. Therefore, here, a command for controlling the second start port 10 in the second mode for a predetermined time is read and set.

(Step S405)
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S403 that the flag is not turned on in the short time game flag storage area 410b, that is, when the current game state is the non-short time game state, the CPU 101a sets the open time setting program 203a. And set the release time to 0.2 seconds.

(Step S406)
When the opening time is set in step S404 or step S405, the CPU 101a reads the second start port control program 203 and starts energizing the second start port opening / closing solenoid 10c. Thereby, the 2nd starting port 10 will open and it will be controlled by the 2nd mode.

(Step S407)
Further, the second start port control program 203 starts measuring time simultaneously with the start of energization of the second start port opening / closing solenoid 10c.

(Step S408)
Next, it is determined whether or not the opening time set in step S404 or S405 has elapsed. Note that if “NO” is determined in step S402 and the processing in steps S403 to S407 is performed in the routine processing, it is always determined “NO” in step S408, and the next subroutine is executed. It becomes.
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S402 that an auxiliary game is being performed, it may be determined that the opening time set in the routine process before the routine process has elapsed. However, even if the auxiliary game has already been executed at the start of the routine process, if the set opening time has not elapsed (“NO” in step S408), the second start port process is terminated. Then, the following subroutine is executed.

(Step S409)
If the second start port control program 203 determines in step S408 that the set open time has elapsed, the energization of the second start port opening / closing solenoid 10c is stopped. As a result, the second starting port 10 returns to the first mode, and it becomes impossible or difficult to enter the game ball again, and the auxiliary game that has been executed ends.

(Step S410)
When the energization of the second start opening / closing solenoid 10c is stopped as described above, the second start opening control program 203 resets the set open time.

(Step S411)
Finally, the second start port control program 203 turns off the flag in the auxiliary game start flag storage area 410a, ends the second start port process, and executes the next subroutine.

(Start-up entrance ball processing)
When the second start opening process is completed as described above, the CPU 101a reads the start opening entering processing program 221 from the ROM 101b, and performs the start opening entering process shown in FIG.

(Step S501)
The starting opening ball processing program 221 determines whether the first starting opening detection SW 9a has detected a signal, that is, whether or not a game ball has entered the first starting opening 9. If the first start port detection SW 9a does not detect a signal, that is, if the game ball has not entered the first start port 9, the start port entering process is terminated and the next subroutine is executed. To do.

(Step S502)
In the step S501, if the first start hole detection SW9a is determined to be ON, the first special symbol reserved number _{(U 1)} first holding stored in the storage area 402a _{(U 1)} is less than 4 It is determined whether or not. As a result, when the first hold (U ₁ ) is the upper limit reserved number “4”, the start entrance ball entering process is terminated and the next subroutine is executed.

(Step S503)
In step S502, if the first hold (U ₁ ) is less than 4, the CPU 101a reads the special symbol hold number count program 221a and stores it in the first special symbol hold number (U ₁ ) storage area 402a. “1” is added to the current first pending number (U ₁ ) stored and stored.

(Step S504)
Further, the CPU 101a reads the jackpot random number lottery program 221b, acquires the jackpot random number, and stores the acquired jackpot random number in the first special symbol holding storage area 403a. Note that the jackpot random number determines whether the jackpot, the small hit, or the loss. The jackpot random number lottery program 221b eliminates one jackpot random number from 601 random numbers from “0” to “600”. Extract randomly. Subsequently, the CPU 101a reads the symbol random number lottery program 221c, acquires the symbol random number, and stores the acquired symbol random number in the special symbol holding storage area 403. The symbol random number determines the type of jackpot or jackpot, and the symbol random number lottery program 221c randomly extracts one symbol random number from 251 random numbers from “0” to “250”. . Further, the CPU 101a reads the reach random number lottery program 221d, acquires the reach random number, and stores the acquired reach random number in the special symbol holding storage area 403. The reach random number is used to determine whether or not to perform an effect with reach. The reach random number lottery program 221d randomly selects one reach random number from 251 random numbers from “0” to “250”. Extract.

Each random number acquired as described above is stored in the first special symbol reservation storage area 403a. The conceptual diagrams of the first special symbol reservation storage area 403a and the second special symbol reservation storage area 403b are as follows. As shown in FIG. As is clear from FIG. 14A, the first special symbol reservation storage area 403a has four storage units from a first storage unit 403a-1 to a fourth storage unit 403a-4.
FIG. 14B is a conceptual diagram of a second special symbol reservation storage area 403b, which will be described later. The second special symbol reservation storage area 403b also includes the fifth storage unit 403b-5 to the eighth storage unit 403b. It has four storage units up to -8.
As shown in FIG. 14C, the first storage unit 403a-1 to the eighth storage unit 403b-8 are provided with an area for storing the acquired jackpot random number, symbol random number, and reach random number. It has been.

  And each random number acquired in the said step S504 is memorize | stored in order from the 1st memory | storage part 403a-1. For example, if no random number is stored in any of the first storage unit 403a-1 to the fourth storage unit 403a-4, the acquired random number is stored in the first storage unit 403a-1. Further, for example, when random numbers are already stored in the three storage units of the first storage unit 403a-1 to the third storage unit 403a-3, the acquired random number is stored in the fourth storage unit 403a-4. To do.

(Step S505)
When the ball entry process related to the first start port 9 is completed as described above, or when “NO” is determined in the above steps S501 and S502, as shown in FIG. The processing program 221a determines whether or not a game ball has entered the second start port 10. When the second start port detection SW 10a does not detect a signal, that is, when the game ball has not entered the second start port 10, the start port entering process is terminated, and the next subroutine Execute.

(Step S506)
In step S505, when the second start hole detection SW10a is determined to be ON, the second special symbol reserved number _{(U 2)} second holding stored in the storage area 402b _{(U 2)} is less than 4 It is determined whether or not. As a result, if the second hold (U ₂ ) is the upper limit reserved number “4”, the start-entrance ball entering process is terminated, and the next subroutine is executed.

(Step S507)
If it is determined in step S506 that the second hold (U ₂ ) is less than 4, the CPU 101a reads the special symbol hold number count program 221a and stores the second special symbol hold number (U ₂ ) storage area 402b. "1" is added to the current second hold (U ₂ ) value stored in and stored.

(Step S508)
Further, the CPU 101a reads the jackpot random number lottery program 221b, the design random number lottery program 221c, and the reach random number lottery program 221d in the same manner as described above, acquires each random number, and holds the obtained random number in the second special symbol hold. Store in the storage area 403b.

(Special symbol variation processing)
When the start entrance ball entering process is completed as described above, the CPU 101a reads the special symbol variation processing program 222 from the ROM 101b, and performs the special symbol variation process shown in FIG.

(Step S601)
In the special symbol variation processing program 222, first, the flag is turned on in any of the long hit game start flag storage area 410d, the short hit game start flag storage area 410e, and the small hit game start flag storage area 410f of the ROM 101b. That is, it is determined whether a special game is being played. As a result, if it is determined that the special game is being played, the special symbol variation process is terminated and the next subroutine is executed.

(Step S602)
When the special game is not in progress, the special symbol variation processing program 222 determines whether or not the special symbol variation is being displayed.

(Step S603) (Step S604)
Furthermore, when not in the variation of the special symbols are special symbol variation time processing program 222, the second special symbol reserved number (U ₂₎ second holding stored in the storage area 402b (U ₂₎ is "1" It is determined whether the above is true (step S603).
As a result, if it is determined that the second hold (U ₂ ) is “1” or more (“YES” in step S503), the second special symbol hold number (U ₂ ) is stored in the storage area 402b. It has the value _{(U 2)} from the "1" second number of holding new by subtracting the _{(U 2)} stores (step S504).

(Step S605)
On the other hand, in step S603, when the second special symbol reserved number (U ₂₎ second holding stored in the storage area 402b (U ₂₎ is determined to be "0", when the special symbol variation processing The program 222 determines whether or not the first hold (U ₁ ) stored in the first special symbol hold count (U ₁ ) storage area 402a is “1” or more.
As a result, if it is determined that the first hold (U ₁ ) is “0”, the special symbol variation process is terminated as it is, and the next subroutine is executed.

(Step S606)
If it is determined in step S605 that the first hold (U ₁ ) is equal to or greater than “1” (“YES” in step S605), the first special symbol hold number (U ₁ ) is stored in the storage area 402a. A new first hold number (U ₁ ) obtained by subtracting “1” from the value (U ₁ ) stored is stored.

(Step S607)
Subsequently, the special symbol variation processing program 222 performs a shift process on the data stored in the first special symbol reservation storage area 403a or the second special symbol reservation storage area 403b. Specifically, each data stored in the first storage unit 403a-1 to the fourth storage unit 403a-4 or each data stored in the fifth storage unit 403b-5 to the eighth storage unit 403b-8 is 1 Shift to the previous storage unit.

For example, when the second hold (U ₂ ) is stored as “1” or more (“YES” in step S603), the data stored in the eighth storage unit 403b-8 is used as the seventh storage unit 403b−. 7, the data stored in the seventh storage unit 403 b-7 is shifted to the sixth storage unit 403 b-6, and the data stored in the sixth storage unit 403 b-6 is changed to the fifth storage unit 403 b- Shift to 5. At this time, the data stored in the fifth storage unit 403b-5 is written into the predetermined processing area and is erased from the second special symbol reservation storage area 403b. However, in this case, the data stored in the first special symbol reservation storage area 403a is not shifted and maintained in the storage state.
In addition, when the second hold (U ₂ ) is not stored (“NO” in step S603) and the first hold (U ₁ ) is stored “1” or more (“YES” in step S605). Shifts the data stored in the fourth storage unit 403a-4 to the third storage unit 403a-3 and shifts the data stored in the third storage unit 403a-3 to the second storage unit 403a-2 The data stored in the second storage unit 403a-2 is shifted to the first storage unit 403a-1. At this time, the data stored in the first storage unit 403a-1 is written into the predetermined processing area and is erased from the first special symbol storage area 403a. However, in this case, the data stored in the second special symbol holding storage area 403b is not shifted and maintained in the storage state.

As is clear from steps S603 to S607, in the first embodiment, when both the first hold (U ₁ ) and the second hold (U ₂ ) are stored, the second hold (U 1) _The special symbol variation display based on ₂ ) is given priority.

(Big hit judgment processing)
Next, the CPU 101a reads the jackpot determination processing program 222a from the ROM 101b, and executes the jackpot determination processing based on the data written in the predetermined processing area in step S605.

(Step S701)
As shown in FIG. 14, the jackpot determination processing program 222a determines whether or not a flag is turned on in the high probability game flag storage area 410c. The case where the flag is turned on in the high probability game flag storage area 410c is a case where the current game state is a high probability game state.

(Step S702) (Step S703)
If it is determined in step S701 that the current gaming state is a high probability gaming state, a “high probability random number determination table” is selected in step S702. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S701 that the current gaming state is not a high probability gaming state (low probability gaming state), a “low probability random number determination table” is selected in step S703.

(Step S704)
Then, the CPU 101a reads the jackpot determination processing program 222a and uses the “high probability random number determination table” or “low probability” selected in step S702 or step S703 as the jackpot random number written in the processing area in step S607. Judgment is made based on the “random hour determination table”.

Here, the determination of the jackpot random number performed by the jackpot determination processing program 222a will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 17A-1 and FIG. 17A-2 show an example of the jackpot winning probability, the jackpot winning probability, and the jackpot random number. FIG. 17 (a-1) shows a table (hereinafter referred to as “first high accuracy table”, “first low probability”) for determining the jackpot random number acquired by the game ball entering the first start port 9. FIG. 17 (a-2) is a table (hereinafter referred to as “second high”) for determining the jackpot random number acquired when the game ball enters the second starting port 10. "Probability table" and "Second low probability table"). As shown in this figure, one jackpot random number is acquired from 601 random numbers from 0 to 600. In the low probability gaming state, the jackpot random number is determined based on the first low probability table or the second low probability table. According to these low probability random number determination tables, two random numbers 7 and 317 are used. Is determined to be a big hit. On the other hand, in the high probability gaming state, the determination of the big hit random number is performed based on the first high probability table or the second high probability table. According to these high probability random number determination tables, 7, 37, 67, 97, 127, 157, 187, 217, 247, 277, 317, 337, 367, 397, 427, 457, 487, 517, 547, 20 random numbers of 577 are determined to be jackpots.
As described above, even when the random numbers stored in the special symbol storage area 403 are the same, the case of using the “high probability random number determination table” and the case of using the “low probability random number determination table” Thus, a different determination result is obtained.

In the first embodiment, the “small hit” win is also determined by the big hit random number. The “small hit” is to acquire the right to execute the “small hit game”. In the first embodiment, when the jackpot random number is determined based on the first low-accuracy table or the first high-accuracy table, the six random numbers 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, and 300 are determined to be small hits. Determined. On the other hand, when the big hit random number is determined based on the second low probability table or the second high accuracy table, three random numbers 100, 200, and 300 are determined to be small hits.
As described above, in the first embodiment, when the game ball enters the first start port 9 and when the game ball enters the second start port 10, the winning probability of winning the jackpot is made the same. , The winning probability per hit is set differently.

(Step S705) (Step S706)
As a result of the determination of the jackpot random number in step S704, the jackpot determination processing program 222a further determines the type of jackpot by determining the symbol random number written in the processing area.

The determination of symbol random numbers performed by the jackpot determination processing program 222a will be described with reference to FIG. 17 (b-1) and 17 (b-2) show examples of the types of gaming profits that are awarded when winning a jackpot, that is, the types of jackpots, their winning probabilities, and symbol random numbers. (B-1) is an example of a table used to determine the first hold (U ₁ ) acquired when a game ball enters the first start port 9, and FIG. game ball in starting opening 10 is an example of a table in determining a second hold (U ₂₎ which is obtained by ball entrance. FIG. 17B-3 is an example of a table used when it is determined that the jackpot random number has been won as a result of the jackpot random number determination. The first hold (U ₁ ) and the second hold ( The same table is used for both U ₂ ).

If it is determined in step S704 that the jackpot random number is won for the first hold (U ₁ ), the jackpot determination processing program 222a is displayed in the table shown in FIG. 17 (b-1). A design random number is determined on the basis of which one of the six types of jackpots is determined.
On the other hand, the second hold (U _2), when the jackpot random number is determined to be won jackpot, the jackpot determining program 222a, based on the table shown in FIG. 17 (b-2) the symbol A random number is determined, and one of the two types of jackpots shown in the figure is determined.

The reason for winning the second hold (U ₂ ) only for either “per length with a high probability” or “per length with a normal time” is as follows. That is, in the non-short game state, almost no game ball enters the second start port 10. In other words, in the non-time-saving gaming state, most of the jackpot lottery is performed when a gaming ball enters the first start port 9. Therefore, in the non-time-saving gaming state, any of the six types of jackpots is won to increase the interest of the game.

On the other hand, even when a game ball enters the second starting port 10, if six types of jackpots are won, a short-time game state is provided to change the player's willingness to play the game. There is a risk of declining.
For example, if you win the “short win with high probability” and become short-time gaming state, if you win “short win with normal time” or “short win with no normal time”, It is impossible to enjoy the gaming profits due to the winning of “Short-term hit”, and the player's willingness to play is reduced at once.

Also, for example, if a player wins a short-time game with a high probability and becomes a short-time game state, if a player frequently wins one of the “short wins” again, the player receives a lot of prize balls. It is difficult to achieve the maximum goal of the game to win the game, and the willingness to play can decline at once. Such a situation frequently occurs in the short-time gaming state.
Therefore, so that the above situation does not occur frequently, the second hold (U ₂ ) is elected only for either “high probability per short length” or “normal per short length”. It was.

(Step S707)
When the jackpot type is determined as described above, the jackpot determination processing program 222a sets a jackpot symbol (special symbol) corresponding to the jackpot type. The jackpot symbol set is a process for stopping and displaying the determined jackpot symbol on the special symbol indicators 19 and 20 when the special symbol variation display ends. Therefore, when each random number written in the processing area relates to the first hold (U ₁ ), the special symbol display 19 performs a process so that the jackpot symbol is displayed, and the second hold (U ₂ ). In such a case, processing is performed so that the jackpot symbol is displayed on the special symbol indicator 20.
The special symbols displayed on the special symbol indicators 19 and 20 are as shown in FIG. For example, when winning “long per short with high probability” is displayed, “1” is displayed on the special symbol indicators 19 and 20, and when winning “short per hour without normal time”, the special symbol indicator is displayed. 19 and 20 are displayed as “6”.

(Step S708)
If it is determined in step S705 that the jackpot is not a big hit, it is determined whether the result of the big hit random number is a big hit.

(Step S709)
In the above step S708, if the result of the determination of the big hit random number is that the big hit is won, the CPU 101a reads the big hit determination processing program 222a and based on the symbol random number determination table shown in FIG. 17 (b-3). The design random number is determined. In the first embodiment, there are provided three types of small hits, ie, small hits 1, 2 small hits, and 3 small hits, and one of the small hits is determined by determining the design random number.

(Step S710)
When the type of small hit is determined as described above, the big hit determination processing program 222a sets the small hit symbol (special symbol) corresponding to the small hit type in the same manner as described above.
The small winning symbols displayed on the special symbol indicators 19 and 20 are as shown in FIG. 17 (b-3), and the special symbol “7” corresponding to the small hit 1 and the special symbol corresponding to the small hit 2 are shown. The special symbol “9” corresponding to the symbol “8” and the small hit 3 is provided. Regardless of which one of these small hits 1 to 3 is won, the content of the small hit game executed thereafter is exactly the same.

(Step S711)
In step S708, if the player has not won a small win and is a so-called lost game, the CPU 101a reads the jackpot determination processing program 222a and sets a lost symbol. The lost symbol displayed on the special symbol indicators 19 and 20 is “−”.

(Change pattern selection process)
When the jackpot determination process is completed as described above, the CPU 101a next reads the variation pattern selection processing program 222b and determines the variation pattern.

(Step S801)
As shown in FIG. 16, the variation pattern selection processing program 222b determines whether or not the result of the jackpot determination process in step S700 is a jackpot.

(Step S802)
If the result of the jackpot determination process is a jackpot, the jackpot table is selected and set.

(Step S803) (Step S804)
Further, when it is determined that the result of the jackpot determination process is not a jackpot, it is further determined whether or not the result of the jackpot determination process is a jackpot. If the result of the big hit determination process is a small hit (“YES” in step S803), the small hit table is selected and set (step S804).

(Step S805)
Then, if the result of the big hit determination process is neither big win nor small win, but a loss, the variation pattern selection processing program 222b determines the reach random number written in the processing area based on the reach random number determination table. Do. Reach random number determination will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 17C shows an example of the presence / absence of the reach effect, the appearance probability, and the reach random number.

As already described, one reach random number is randomly selected from 0 to 250 random numbers. In the first embodiment, the reach random number is determined based on the reach random number determination table only when it is determined that the big hit random number is lost. In the reach random number determination table, a random number from 0 to 24 is determined as an effect with reach, and other random numbers are determined as an effect without reach. Therefore, at the time of losing, the probability that the non-reach effect is executed is increased, while the so-called gas reasure effect that gives the player a sense of expectation is executed with a probability of about 10%. On the other hand, since a reachable effect is always executed at the time of a big hit or a small hit, in the first embodiment, a reach random number is acquired, but the reach random number is not determined.
Here, the effect with reach and the effect without reach determined by the reach random number indicate the aspect of the decorative design effect performed in the effect display device 13. In other words, during the special symbol variation display, the symbols composed of several sequences in which the numbers “1” to “9” are continuously written in the vertical direction are displayed in three columns. These symbols start scrolling at the same time.

Then, in the effect with reach, when the scrolling is stopped and the symbols are stopped and displayed after a predetermined time has elapsed after the start of the scrolling, any two symbols (sequences) are stopped first. At this time, the same number stops and is displayed on a straight line extending horizontally or diagonally, and the last one row gradually decreases the scrolling speed, and the expectation that three identical numbers may be aligned on the straight line. To the player. Such a production with reach includes a so-called super reach production in which various characters appear and stories develop before the last row of scrolling stops.
On the other hand, in the non-reach effect, the design is stopped and displayed in a state where the same numbers are not aligned on a straight line extending horizontally or diagonally without giving an effect that gives the player a sense of expectation as described above. .

  As described above, the reach random number is used to determine whether to perform the effect with reach or the effect without reach in the effect display device 13 when the result of the determination of the jackpot random number is lost. A reachable effect appears with a probability, so that a player has a reasonable expectation. In the case of winning a long win, the above-described effect with reach is always performed, and finally the decorative symbols are stopped and displayed in a state where the same numbers are aligned on a straight line extending horizontally or diagonally. On the other hand, in the case of winning with a short win or small win or loss, the decorative design is stopped and displayed in a state where the same numbers are not aligned on the straight line.

(Step S806) (Step S807) (Step S808)
As a result of the determination of reach random numbers performed as described above, if it is determined that there is a reach effect, that is, if the reach random numbers are “0” to “24”, the reach table is selected and set. When it is determined that there is no reach effect, that is, when the reach random number is “25” to “250”, the lose table is selected and set.

(Step S809)
Next, the CPU 101a reads the variable random number lottery program 222c, and randomly extracts 1 random numbers from “0” to “250” in the same manner as the reach random numbers.

(Step S810)
Then, the variation pattern selection processing program 222b determines the variation random number extracted in step S809 based on the big hit table, the small hit table, the reach table, and the lose table. Each table determines the variation time of the special symbol and the contents of the effects performed during the variation of the special symbol. For example, in the jackpot table, a random number of “0” to “10” is determined to be a production A with a variation time of 1 minute, and a random number of “11” to “20” is a reach of a variation time of 2 minutes. The presence effect B is determined. If a random number is determined based on the big hit table, the small hit table, and the reach table, it is always determined that there is a reach, and if a variable random number is determined based on the lose table, it is always a non-reach effect. Determined.

(Step S811)
When the variation pattern is determined as described above, the variation pattern selection processing program 222b sets a command as determined above and ends the variation pattern selection processing.

(Step S608)
Next, as shown in FIG. 15, the special symbol variation processing program 222 transmits the jackpot determination result and the information related to the variation pattern determined in Step S600 and Step S700 to the sub-control board 102. Set the production execution command. This production execution command relates to at least information related to the jackpot determination result of “big win”, “small jackpot”, and “losing”, the variation time of the special symbol, and the mode of production (reach with reach or non-reach effect) Have information.

(Step S609)
Then, the CPU 101a reads the special symbol fluctuation display program 222d and starts the special symbol fluctuation display on the special symbol indicators 19 and 20. That is, information written in the processing region, when in the first hold (U ₁₎ is blinks the special symbol display unit 19, when according to the second hold (U ₂₎ is a special symbol display 20 Blink.

(Step S610)
When the variation display of the special symbol is started as described above, the special symbol variation processing program 222 starts measuring the variation time.

(Step S611)
On the other hand, when “YES” is determined in step S602, the process of steps S609 and S610 is performed in the routine process (special symbol variation process) before the special symbol variation process, and the special symbol variation is performed. This is the case where the display is performed. Therefore, in this case, it is determined whether or not the variation time set in step S811 has elapsed. As a result, if it is determined that the set time has not elapsed, the special symbol variation process is terminated and the next subroutine is executed.

(Step S612)
When it is determined that the time set in step S610 of the routine process (special symbol variation process) before the special symbol variation process has elapsed, the CPU 101a reads out the special symbol variation display program 222d, and the special symbol variation process. The special symbol set in step S700 of the previous routine process (special symbol variation process) is stopped and displayed on the special symbol indicators 19 and 20. As a result, the player is notified of the lottery result.

(Step S613)
Then, the special symbol variation processing program 222 resets the set variation time.

(Processing during variable suspension)
The special lottery result is determined by stopping and displaying the special symbol as described above. Therefore, in the main control board 101, the process during the fluctuation stop shown in FIG. 19 is performed in order to set the subsequent game state and the like according to the lottery result.

(Step S901)
The CPU 101a reads the processing program 222e during fluctuation suspension from the ROM 101b, and determines whether or not the stroke change notification flag is ON in the stroke change notification flag storage area 410g of the RAM 101c. The “stroke change notification flag” here is a flag attached when “stroke change notification” described later is performed, and is a case where the stroke change notification flag is turned on in the stroke change notification flag storage area 410g. This is the case where the stroke change notification is performed.
In the first embodiment, when the gaming state is changed from the “time saving gaming state” to the “non-time saving gaming state”, the stroke change notification is performed. When the game state is changed from “short-time game state” to “non-short-time game state”, for example, the short-time game state, “high probability short-time short win” and “normal short-time short win” are won. Or when the value (J) stored in the remaining variation count (J) storage area 407 of the short-time gaming state described later becomes zero. In this stroke change notification, for example, sounds such as “Please return to the left” and “Please return the handle” are output from the audio output device 18.

(Step S902)
If it is determined in step S901 that the stroke change notification flag has been turned ON, the change stop processing program 222e is stored in the remaining change count (Y) storage area of the stroke change notification (Y). The calculated value obtained by subtracting “1” from is stored as a new remaining fluctuation count (Y).

(Step S903) (Step S904)
Then, the CPU 101a determines whether or not the remaining number of fluctuations (Y) is 0 (step S903).
Here, the remaining number of fluctuations (Y) being “0” means that the stroke change notification has been performed a predetermined number of times. Therefore, when the remaining number of fluctuations (Y) = 0, the fluctuation stop processing program 222e turns off the stroke change notification flag stored in the stroke change notification flag storage area 410g.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S901 that the stroke change notification flag is not ON, that is, if the stroke change notification is not performed, the processing in steps S902 to S904 is not performed.

(Step S905)
The fluctuation suspension processing program 222 determines whether or not the set special symbol is a jackpot symbol.

(Step S906)
If it is determined in step S905 that the set special symbol is not a jackpot symbol, the processing program 222e during fluctuation stop determines whether or not a flag is turned on in the short time game flag storage area 410b. The case where the flag is turned on in the short-time game flag storage area 410b is a case where the current game state is the short-time game state.

(Step S907)
When the current gaming state is the short-time gaming state, the operation value obtained by subtracting “1” from (J) stored in the remaining fluctuation count (J) storage area 407 of the short-time gaming state is used as a new remaining fluctuation. Stored as the number of times (J).

(Step S908) (Step S909)
The remaining fluctuation count (J) of “0” means that the special symbol fluctuation display in the short-time gaming state has been performed a predetermined number of times. Therefore, when the remaining number of changes (J) = 0, the processing program 222e during change stop turns off the flag stored in the short time game flag storage area 410b. Note that if the current gaming state is not the short-time gaming state, the processing of steps S907 to S909 is not performed.

(Step S910)
In step S909, when the time-saving game flag is turned OFF, the variable stoppage processing program 222e turns ON the stroke change notification flag.

(Step S911)
Then, the fluctuation stop processing program 222e stores “4” in the remaining fluctuation count (Y) storage area of the stroke change notification. As a result, when the special symbol variation display in the short-time gaming state is performed a predetermined number of times and the gaming state is changed from the short-time gaming state to the non-short-time gaming state, the stroke change notification is executed for a maximum of four games. That is, the player can be notified that the stroke needs to be changed.

(Step S912)
The processing program 222e during fluctuation suspension determines whether or not the flag is turned on in the high probability game flag storage area 410c. The case where the flag is turned on in the high probability game flag storage area 410c is a case where the current game state is a high probability game state.

(Step S913)
If the current gaming state is a high probability gaming state, the calculated value obtained by subtracting “1” from (X) stored in the remaining variation count (X) storage area 406 of the high probability gaming state is a new value. Stored as the remaining number of fluctuations (X).

(Step S914) (Step S915)
When the remaining variation number (X) is “0”, it means that the variation display of the special symbol in the high probability gaming state has been performed a predetermined number of times. Therefore, when the remaining number of changes (X) = 0, the process program 222e during change stop turns off the flag stored in the high probability game flag storage area 410b. Note that if the current gaming state is not a high-probability gaming state, the processes in steps S913 to S915 are not performed.

(Step S916) (Step S917)
Further, the processing program 222e during fluctuation stop determines whether or not the set special symbol is a small hit symbol, and if it is a small hit symbol, a flag is set in the small hit game start flag storage area 410f. Turns ON and ends the process during fluctuation stop.

(Step S918)
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S905 that the set special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the variable suspension processing program 222e further determines whether the jackpot symbol is a high probability jackpot symbol. That is, it is determined whether the set special symbol is a symbol related to one of “long per short with high probability”, “short per short with high probability” or “short per short without high probability”.

(Step S919)
In the above step S912, if the set special symbol is a symbol related to a high-probability jackpot, the processing program 222e during fluctuation suspension turns on the flag in the high-probability game flag storage area 410c. If the current gaming state is a high-probability gaming state, the flag has already been turned on, so the flag is left on as it is.

(Step S920)
In addition, the processing program 222e during suspension of suspension stores, in the remaining variation count (X) storage area 406 of the high probability gaming state, how many times the determination of the jackpot random number is performed in the “high probability random number determination table” thereafter. . In the first embodiment, “10000” is stored in the upper limit fluctuation count (X).

(Step S921)
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S812 that the set jackpot symbol is a normal jackpot symbol, that is, the set special symbol is “normal per short length” or “short for normal time”. When it is determined that the symbol is one of “success” and “normal short / no short win”, the fluctuation stoppage processing program 222e turns off the flag of the high probability game flag storage area 410c. If the current gaming state is a low-probability gaming state, the flag is originally turned off, so that the flag is kept off as it is.

(Step S922)
In addition, if the data is stored in the remaining fluctuation count (X) storage area 406 of the high probability gaming state, the processing program 222e during the suspension of resetting resets the data.

(Step S923)
Further, the processing program 222e during fluctuation stop further determines whether or not the jackpot symbol is a jackpot symbol with a short time. In other words, whether the set special symbol is a symbol related to one of “long per short with high probability”, “per long per short with normal”, “short per short with high probability” or “short per short with normal” to decide.

(Step S924)
If it is determined in step S923 that the jackpot symbol is a jackpot symbol with a time reduction, the processing program 222e during fluctuation stop turns off the stroke change notification flag (step S924) and the remaining variation in the stroke change notification The value (Y) stored in the number of times (Y) storage area is cleared (step S925).

(Step S926)
Then, the suspension processing program 222e turns on the flag in the time-saving game flag storage area 410b. If the current gaming state is the short-time gaming state, the flag is originally turned on, so the flag is kept on as it is.

(Step S927) (Step S928) (Step S929)
When the above-mentioned jackpot symbol is a high-probability jackpot symbol ("YES" in step S918), that is, "High probability short-term per length" or "High probability short-term per-spot" In the case of the symbol according to the above, “10000” is stored in the remaining fluctuation count (J) storage area 407 of the short-time gaming state (step S928). On the other hand, if the jackpot symbol is a normal jackpot symbol (“NO” in step S918), that is, if it is a symbol related to “long per hour with normal time” or “short per hour with normal time”, the short time game “100” is stored in the remaining number of state fluctuations (J) storage area 407 (step S929).

(Step S930) (Step S931)
Further, when the processing program 222e during fluctuation stop determines that the jackpot symbol is a jackpot symbol without time reduction, that is, the set special symbol is “high probability short / short short hit” or “normal time short / short short”. If it is determined that the symbol is a “hit” symbol, the flag is turned ON in the stroke change notification flag storage area (step S930). Then, “4” is stored in the remaining change frequency (Y) storage area of the stroke change notification (step S931). If the remaining change count (Y) of the stroke change notification has already been any of “0” to “3”, this (Y) is once cleared, and then the remaining change count (Y) storage area is renewed. "4" is stored in

(Step S932) (Step S933)
Then, the processing program 222e during fluctuation stop turns off the flag in the short time gaming flag storage area 410b (step S932), and the value (J) stored in the remaining fluctuation count (J) storage area 407 of the short time gaming state. Clear (step S933). Note that when the current gaming state is the short-time gaming state, the flag is originally turned off, so the flag is kept off as it is.

(Step S934) (Step S935) (Step S936)
Further, the processing program 222e during fluctuation stop determines whether the jackpot symbol is a jackpot symbol per long. That is, it is determined whether the set special symbol is a symbol related to “per length with a high probability time” or “per length with a normal time”. As a result, when it is determined that the jackpot symbol is a jackpot symbol per long, the variable stoppage processing program 222e turns on the flag in the long hit game start flag storage area 410d (step S935). On the other hand, if it is determined that the jackpot symbol is a short hit jackpot symbol, the processing program 222e during variable suspension turns on a flag in the short hit game start flag storage area 410e (step S936).
As a result, the process during fluctuation suspension and the special symbol fluctuation process are completed, and the CPU 101a executes the following subroutine.

(Large winnings processing)
When the special symbol variation process is completed as described above, the CPU 101a reads the special prize opening process program 241 from the ROM 101b and performs the special prize opening process shown in FIG.

(Step S1001)
The big winning opening processing program 241 determines whether or not the flag is turned on in the long hit game start flag storage area 410d or the short hit game start flag storage area 410e. As a result, when the flag is turned on in any of the storage areas, the big hit game process shown in FIGS. 19 to 20 is performed.

(Step S1002)
On the other hand, if the flag is not turned on in any of the above storage areas in step S1001, the big prize opening processing program 241 determines whether or not the flag is turned on in the small hit game start flag storage area 410f. to decide. As a result, when the flag is turned on in the small hit game start flag storage area 410f, the small hit game process shown in FIG. 23 is performed. On the other hand, when the flag is not stored in the small hit game start flag storage area 410f, the big winning opening process is ended, and the CPU 101a executes the next subroutine.

(Big hit game processing)
When it is determined in step S1001 that the flag has been turned on in the long hit game start flag storage area 410d or the short hit game start flag storage area 410e, the CPU 101a reads out the big hit game processing program 241a and displays it in FIG. The jackpot game process shown is started. In the first embodiment, the CPU 101a reads and executes the same program (big hit game processing program 241a) from the ROM 101b in the control of the long hit game and the short hit game.

(Step S1101)
The jackpot game is started by sending an opening command. This opening command is for transmitting the jackpot game process start information in the main control board 101 to the sub control board 102. Therefore, the jackpot game processing program 241a determines whether or not this opening command has already been transmitted.

(Step S1102)
When it is determined in step S1101 that the opening command has not yet been transmitted (“NO” in step S1101), the jackpot game processing program 241a sets the opening command. At this time, if the flag is turned on in the long hit game start flag storage area 410d, that is, if the big hit game process relates to a long hit game, a long hit opening command is set. On the other hand, when the flag is turned on in the short hit game start flag storage area 401e, that is, when the big hit game process relates to the short hit game, the short hit opening command is set.

(Step S1103)
When the opening command is set as described above, the jackpot game processing program 241a starts measuring the opening time and sets the opening time to 5 seconds in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 101c. Thus, when the measurement of the opening time is started, the jackpot game process is terminated. When the sub control board 102 receives the long hitting opening command, the sub control board 102 executes an opening effect for starting the long hit game, and displays a background image specific to the long hit game on the effect display device 13. Is done. On the other hand, when the short hit opening command is received, an opening effect for starting the short hit game is executed on the sub control board 102 and a background image specific to the short hit game is displayed on the effect display device 13.
Although a detailed description is omitted, the background image specific to the long hit game is continuously displayed until the long hit game ends, and the background image specific to the short hit game is a special symbol after the short hit game ends. Are continuously displayed until a predetermined number of times are displayed.

(Step S1104)
If it is determined in step S1101 that an opening command has already been transmitted, the jackpot game processing program 241a determines whether or not it is currently opening.

(Step S1105)
If it is determined in step S1104 that the opening is currently in progress, it is determined whether a preset opening time has elapsed. As a result, if the set time has not elapsed, the jackpot game process is terminated and the next subroutine is executed.

(Step S1106)
When it is determined in step S1005 that the set time has elapsed, the big hit game processing program 241a clears the winning prize opening number (C) storage area 409.

(Step S1107)
Next, the jackpot game processing program 241a adds “1” to the current round game number (R) stored in the round game number (R) storage area 408 and stores it. If it is currently being opened (“YES” in step S1104) and it is determined that the set opening time has elapsed (“YES” in step S1105), the number of round games (R) storage area 408 Nothing is remembered. That is, since no round game has been performed yet, “1” is stored in the round game count (R) storage area 408.

(Step S1108)
The jackpot game processing program 241a sets a round start command to transmit the start information of the round game in the main control board 101 to the sub control board 102. When the sub control board 102 receives a round start command in the long hit gaming state, for example, a display for presentation is performed such as “fifth round”. On the other hand, even if the sub control board 102 receives the round start command in the short hit gaming state, no control for presentation is performed.

(Step S1109) (Step S1110) (Step S1111)
The jackpot game processing program 241a determines whether or not a flag is turned on in the long hit game start flag storage area 410d (step S1009). When the long win game start flag storage area 410d is ON, energization of the big prize opening / closing solenoid 11c is started to open the big prize opening / closing door 11b, and a predetermined storage area of the RAM 101c. Next, the energization time of the special prize opening / closing solenoid 11c is set to 30 seconds (step S1110). On the other hand, the case where the flag is not turned on in the long hit game start flag storage area 410d is a case where the flag is turned on in the short hit game start flag storage area 410e and the short hit game is executed. Accordingly, in this case, energization of the big prize opening / closing solenoid 11c is started to open the big prize opening / closing door 11b, and the energizing time of the big prize opening / closing solenoid 11c is set to a predetermined storage area of the RAM 101c by 0. 1 second is set (step S1111).

(Step S1112)
When energization of the big winning opening / closing solenoid 11c is started as described above, the big hit game processing program 241a starts measuring the opening time of the big winning opening 11, and ends the big win game processing.

(Step S1113)
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1104 that the opening is not in progress, the jackpot game processing program 241a determines whether or not it is currently in the interval. As will be described later in detail, the interval here is a pause time set between round games and is set to 2 seconds in the first embodiment. Therefore, if it is determined that the interval is in progress, it is determined in step S1105 whether or not the interval time of 2 seconds has elapsed. If the set time (2 seconds) has not elapsed, the jackpot game processing is performed. Exit and execute the next subroutine.
On the other hand, when the set time has elapsed, the processes of steps S1106 to S1112 are executed as processes for starting the next round game.

(Step S1114) (Step S1115)
If it is determined in step S1113 that the interval is not in progress, the jackpot game processing program 241a determines whether or not the ending is currently in progress. Ending here refers to processing after finishing a predetermined number of round games. Therefore, if it is determined that the ending is currently in progress, it is determined in step S1115 whether the set ending time has elapsed. If it is determined that the set time has not elapsed (“NO” in step S1115), the jackpot game process is terminated as it is, and if it is determined that the set time has elapsed (“YES” in step S1115). Then, the processing shown in FIG. 21 described later is continued.

  Further, in the above step S1114, the case where it is determined that the ending is not in progress means that it is not in the opening, interval, or ending, that is, the big winning opening 11 in the jackpot game is being opened. As described above, when it is determined “NO” in step S1014, that is, when it is determined that the big winning opening 11 is being opened, the jackpot game processing program 241a continues to execute the processing shown in FIG.

(Step S1116) (Step S1117)
As shown in FIG. 20, when the big winning opening detection SW 11 a is ON, the big hit game processing program 241 a stores the number of winning (C) stored in the big winning opening (C) storage area 409. “1” is added to the number of balls, and the number of entered balls (C) is newly stored (step S1017).

(Step S1118) (Step S1119) (Step S1120)
Next, the jackpot game processing program 241a determines whether or not the set open time, in other words, the energizing time of the big prize opening / closing solenoid 11c (long game = 30 seconds, short game = 0.1 seconds) has elapsed. Is determined (step S1118). As a result, when it is determined that the set time has elapsed, the big hit game processing program 241a stops energization of the big winning opening / closing solenoid 11c (step S1120).
In addition, even within the set opening time, when a predetermined number (9) of game balls have entered the big prize opening 11 (“YES” in step S1119), the big prize is obtained as described above. The energization of the mouth opening / closing solenoid 11c is stopped.
If the set time has not elapsed (“NO” in step S1118) and the number of entered balls (C) has not reached the predetermined number (“NO” in step S1119), the jackpot game is continued as it is. End the process.

(Step S1121)
When the energization of the big prize opening / closing solenoid 11c is stopped, the big hit game processing program 241a determines whether or not the round game number (R) stored in the round game number (R) storage area 408 is the maximum. In the first embodiment, the maximum number of round games is set to “15” for the long game and “2” for the short game.

(Step S1122)
If it is determined in step S1121 that the number of round games (R) has reached the maximum, the jackpot game processing program 241a resets the number of entered balls (C) and the number of round games (R).

(Step S1123) (Step S1124)
Also, the jackpot game processing program 241a sets an ending command to transmit jackpot game end information to the sub-control board 102 (step S1123). At this time, although not specifically shown, when the long hit game start flag is ON as in the case of the opening command set, the long hit ending command is set and the short hit game start flag is turned ON. If so, a short hit ending command is set. At the same time, the time required for the ending, that is, the ending time (for example, 5 seconds) is stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 101c, and the measurement of the ending time is started (step S1124).
When the big hit game processing is completed as described above, the following subroutine is executed.

(Step S1125) (Step S1126)
On the other hand, if the number of round games (R) has not reached the maximum (“NO” in step S1121), the jackpot game processing program 241a sets an interval time to execute the next round game. In Embodiment 1, since the interval from the end of the round game to the start of the next round game is 2 seconds, 2 seconds is stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 101c (step S1125), and the interval time Is started (step S1126).

(Step S1127) In FIG. 21, when it is determined in step S1114 that the ending is being performed and it is determined in step S1115 that the ending time has elapsed, the CPU 101a reads the flag erasing program 241c. Thus, the flag turned ON in the long hit game start flag storage area 410d or the short hit game start flag storage area 410e is turned OFF. As a result, the jackpot game process is completed, and the next subroutine is started.
(Step S1127)

(Small game processing)
If it is determined in step S1002 that the flag is turned on in the small hit game start flag storage area 410f, the CPU 101a reads the small hit game processing program 241e and starts the small hit game processing shown in FIG. .

(Step S1201)
The small hit game is started by sending an opening command. This opening command is for transmitting the start information of the small hit game process in the main control board 101 to the sub control board 102. Therefore, the small hit game processing program 241e determines whether or not this opening command has already been transmitted.

(Step S1202)
If it is determined in step S1201 that the opening command has not yet been transmitted, the small hit game processing program 241e sets the opening command to be transmitted to the sub-control board 102. At this time, the small hit game processing program 241e sets a small hitting opening command similar to the big hit game processing program 241a. That is, the same command is set at the start of the small hit game and at the start of the short hit game. As described above, the small hitting game processing program 241e sets the same small hitting opening command as the short hitting opening command because the sub-control board 102 receives the command and the small hitting game is started. This is to make it impossible to determine whether the short hit game has started.

(Step S1203)
When the command is set as described above, the small hit game processing program 241e starts measuring the opening time and ends the small hit game processing.

(Step S1204)
When it is determined in step S1201 that the opening command has already been transmitted, the small hit game processing program 241e determines whether or not the opening command is currently being opened.

(Step S1205)
If it is determined in step S1204 that the opening is currently in progress, it is determined whether a preset opening time has elapsed. As a result, if it is determined that the set time has not elapsed, the small hit game process is terminated and the next subroutine is executed.

(Step S1206) (Step S1207)
If it is determined in step S1205 that the set time has elapsed, a command for energizing and controlling the special prize opening / closing solenoid 11c is set. This command is an instruction to energize the special winning opening / closing solenoid 11c twice for 0.1 seconds with an interval of 2 seconds. That is, unlike the big hit game process, in the big hit game process, the control for the big prize opening / closing solenoid 11c, that is, the opening / closing operation of the big prize opening 11 is performed as a series of operations, and the continuous operation takes the opening time. It will start when it has passed.
Further, the small hit game processing program 241e starts measuring the big winning opening operating time (step S1207), and ends the small hit game processing.

(Step S1208)
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1204 that the opening is not in progress, the small hit game processing program 241e determines whether the ending is currently in progress. Ending here refers to processing after the opening / closing control of the preset winning opening is finished.

(Step S1209) (Step S1210)
The case where it is determined in step S1208 that the ending is not in progress means that neither the opening nor the ending is in progress, that is, the big winning opening 11 is continuously operating in the small hit game. Accordingly, here, the small winning game processing program 241e determines whether or not the big prize opening detection SW11a is turned on (step S1209), and if the detection SW11a is turned on, the big prize mouth entry is made. “1” is added to the number of entered balls (C) stored in the number (C) storage area 409 to newly store the number of entered balls (C) (step S1210).

(Step S1211) (Step S1212) (Step S1213)
Next, the small hit game processing program 241e determines whether or not the set operation time has elapsed (step S1211). The operating time here refers to the first energizing time of the large winning opening / closing solenoid 11c (0.1 sec) + the interval time (2 sec) + the energizing time of the second large winning opening / closing solenoid 11c (0.1 sec). ) For a total of 2.2 seconds. When this operation time has elapsed, the special prize opening / closing solenoid control is ended (step S1213).
Even if the predetermined number (for example, 9) of game balls have entered the big winning opening 11 even within the set opening time (“YES” in step S1212), the small hit game processing program 241e. Finishes the special opening / closing solenoid control.
If the operating time has not elapsed and the number of entered balls (C) has not reached the predetermined number, the small hit game process is terminated as it is (NO in step S1212).

(Step S1214)
In step S1213, when the big winning opening opening / closing solenoid control is completed, the small hit game processing program 241e resets the number of winning (C) stored in the large winning opening (C) storage area 409.

(Step S1215) (Step S1216)
Further, the small hit game processing program 241e sets an ending command to transmit information on the end of the small hit game to the sub-control board 102 (step S1215). The ending command set at this time is the same as the short hitting ending command set in the short hit gaming state. That is, similar to the opening command, the same command is set for the short hit game and the small hit game for the ending command. At the same time, the time required for ending (for example, 5 seconds) is stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 101c, and measurement of the ending time is started (step S1216).

(Step S1217)
If it is determined in step S1208 that the ending is being performed, it is determined whether or not the ending time set in the routine process before the routine process has elapsed. As a result, when it is determined that the ending time has not elapsed, the small hit game processing is ended here.
In the routine processing, if the processing from step S1209 to step S1216 is performed, “NO” is always determined in step S1217.

(Step S1218)
Next, the CPU 101a reads the flag erasing program 241h and turns off the flag that is turned on in the small hit game start flag storage area 410f.
When the small hit game processing is completed as described above, the following subroutine is executed.

  When the special winning opening process is completed as described above, the CPU 101a reads a prize ball processing program from the ROM 101b, and performs a process of paying out a predetermined prize ball according to the detection signal of each detection SW (see FIG. 7). . In the first embodiment, detailed description of the prize ball processing is omitted. When the winning ball process is completed, the CPU 101a finally reads the output process program 260 and executes the output process.

(Step S1301) to (Step S1312)
The output processing program 260 transmits each command to the sub-control board 102 as shown in FIG. The effect execution command transmitted in step S1301 is a command set in the game ball launch process (FIG. 8).
The command transmitted in step S1302 is a command set during the fluctuation stop process, and here, ON / OFF information of the stroke change notification flag is transmitted (FIG. 19).
The command transmitted in step S1303 is a command set during the special symbol variation process (FIG. 15).
Each command transmitted in steps S1304 to S1306 is a command set during the game process per long, and all commands transmitted in steps S1307 to S1309 are set during the game process per short. Command (see FIG. 21).
The commands transmitted in steps S1310 to S1311 are all commands set during the small hit game process (see FIG. 23).

(Step S1312)
The contents determined in each subroutine process are transmitted to the external device as a command. Examples of the external device include a display device installed above the gaming machine 1. This display device notifies the player of various information such as the total number of lottery wins, the number of wins for the jackpot, or the number of wins with a high probability jackpot, and in order to notify the player of such information, The output processing program 260 transmits necessary information to the external device as a command.

  As described above, in the main control board 101, the CPU 101a reads out each main program and subprogram, and executes all the processes described above every 0.004 seconds.

  Next, processing in the sub control board 102 when each command is transmitted from the main control board 101 will be described. Each command transmitted from the main control board 101 is stored in the RAM 102 c of the sub control board 102. The CPU 102a of the sub control board 102 goes to see whether or not the command is stored in the RAM 102c, for example, every 0.004 seconds, and controls the effect based on each stored command. FIG. 25 shows a main subroutine executed in the sub-control board 102. The CPU 102a repeatedly performs the effect execution command reception process → the special game command reception process → the stroke change notification command reception process → the effect command transmission process. ing.

(Direction execution command reception processing)
The CPU 102a reads the effect execution command reception processing program 320 from the ROM 102b, and executes the effect execution command reception process shown in FIG.

(Step S1401)
The effect execution command reception processing program 320 determines whether or not an effect execution command is stored in the RAM 102c. As a result, when the effect execution command is not stored, the effect execution command receiving process is terminated, and the next subroutine is executed.

(Step S1402)
If it is determined in step S1401 that the effect execution command is stored, one effect table is selected based on the effect execution command from the plurality of effect tables stored in the ROM 102b.
The effect execution command has information on the contents of the special symbol from which the variable display is started, that is, whether the special symbol related to the big hit, the small hit, or the loss is displayed. Further, it has information on whether the effect performed at the time of the variable symbol display of the special symbol is the effect with reach or the effect without reach, and further the time of the effect.

The ROM 102b stores a long hit effect table, a short hit and small hit effect table, an effect table with lose reach, and an effect table without lose reach. Each of these tables is provided with a plurality of tables corresponding to the variation times determined by the main control board 101. For example, there is a table for 4 seconds, 8 seconds, and 12 seconds in the effect table without los-reach, and a table for 1 minute, 1 minute 30 seconds, and 2 minutes is provided in the long hit effect table. It has been.
The effect execution command reception processing program 320 selects one effect table from the plurality of tables based on the information included in the received effect execution command. For example, if the received effect execution command has information of “lost”, “no reach”, and “variable time 4 seconds”, the no-reach effect table for 4 seconds is selected.

(Step S1403) (Step S1404)
Next, the CPU 102a reads the effect random number lottery program 321 and randomly extracts 1 random numbers from the random numbers “0” to “250” (step S1403).
The CPU 102a reads the effect random number determination processing program 322, and determines the acquired random number based on the effect table determined in step S1402. In the effect table, a random number and an effect pattern are associated with each other, and one effect pattern is determined from a number of effect patterns according to the random number. Here, the decorative design pattern in the effect display device 13, the operation pattern of the effect actor devices 14 and 15, the irradiation pattern of the effect illumination device 16, and the sound pattern output from the sound output device 18 are determined.

(Step S1405)
As described above, when the effect pattern performed during the special symbol variation display is determined, the effect execution command reception processing program 320 sets the effect confirmation command related to the effect pattern.
As a result, the effect execution command reception process ends, and the CPU 102a executes the following subroutine.

(Special game command reception processing)
When the effect execution command reception process is completed as described above, the CPU 102a reads the special game command reception processing program 330 from the ROM 102b, and performs the special game command reception process shown in FIG.

(Step S1501)
The special game command reception processing program 330 determines whether or not a long hit command (opening command, round start command, ending command) is stored in the RAM 102c. As a result, when the long hit command is stored, the long hit command receiving process shown in FIG. 28 is performed.

(Step S1502)
On the other hand, when the special game command reception processing program 330 determines in step S1501 that the long hit command is not stored in the RAM 102c, the short hit command (opening command, round start command, ending command) is further determined. ) Is stored. As a result, when the short hit command is stored, the short hit command reception process shown in FIG. 29 is performed. If it is determined that the short hit command is not stored in the RAM 102c, the CPU 102a ends the special game command reception process and executes the next subroutine.

(Command reception processing per long)
If it is determined in step S1501 that the long hit command is stored in the RAM 102c, the CPU 102a reads the long hit command reception processing program 331 and starts the long hit command receiving process shown in FIG. To do.

(Step S1601)
The long hit command reception processing program 331 determines whether or not the command stored in the RAM 102c is a long hit opening command.

(Step S1602)
When the long hitting opening command is stored in the RAM 102c, the long hitting command receiving time processing program 331 first sets a command related to the presentation performed during the long hitting game (long hitting gaming command). To do. The “long play game effect command” set here turns on the command for displaying an image on the effect display device 13, the command for operating the effect agent devices 14 and 15, and the effect lighting device 16. Command for outputting voice from the voice output device 18. The effects performed based on these commands are continuously performed from the start to the end of the long hit game.

(Step S1603)
In addition, the long hit command reception processing program 331 sets a command related to the effect (long winning opening effect command) performed at the start of the long hit game. The effect executed by the “long winning opening effect command” is, for example, displaying a message “starting long hit game” on the effect display device 13 or the audio output device 18 or notifying the user by voice. is there. When the long winning gaming effect command and the long winning opening effect command are set, the CPU 102a ends the long winning command reception process in the routine process and executes the next subroutine process.

(Step S1604)
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1601 that the command stored in the RAM 102c is not a long hitting opening command, the long hitting command reception processing program 331 is stored in the RAM 102c. It is determined whether the current command is a round start command.

(Step S1605)
When it is determined that the command stored in the RAM 102c is a round start command, the long hit command reception processing program 331 sets a round effect command. This round effect command is for causing the message “fifth round”, for example, to be superimposed and displayed on the effect display device 13.

(Step S1606)
On the other hand, a case where the command stored in the RAM 102c is not a round start command is a case where a long hitting ending command is stored in the RAM 102c. Therefore, in this case, the long hit command reception processing program 331 sets the long hit ending effect command. When the long hitting ending effect command is transmitted to the lamp control board 104 or the effect control board 105, the effect that has been continuously performed since the start of the long hit game is ended, and the effect related to the ending is newly performed. Is called.

(Command reception processing for short hits)
If it is determined in step S1502 that the short hit command is stored in the RAM 102c, the CPU 102a reads the short hit command reception processing program 332 and starts the short hit command reception process shown in FIG. To do.

(Step S1701)
The short hit command reception processing program 332 determines whether or not the command stored in the RAM 102c is a short hit opening command.

(Step S1702)
When the short hitting opening command is stored in the RAM 102c, the short hitting command reception processing program 332 sets a command related to the effect performed during the short hit game (short win game effect command). The “short hit game effect command” set here turns on the command for displaying an image on the effect display device 13, the command for operating the effect agent devices 14 and 15, and the effect lighting device 16. Command for outputting voice from the voice output device 18. The effects performed based on these commands are continuously performed from the start to the end of the short hit game.

  In the long hit game, the round game ends when a predetermined number of game balls have entered the big winning opening 11, so the time required for the long win game varies depending on the state of the game balls entered. On the other hand, in the short win game, since the opening time of the big prize opening 11 is extremely short, the big prize opening 11 is not closed when a predetermined number of game balls enter the big prize opening 11. In other words, the opening time of the big winning opening in the short win game, that is, the time required for the short win game is always the same. Therefore, the short hit gaming effect command set in step S1602 is set so that the effect ends at the set time, for example, 30 seconds. However, when transitioning to a so-called latent probability change effect mode that prevents the player from determining whether the game state is a high probability game state or a low probability game state, the same background image continues even after the end of the short hit game. Is preferably displayed on the effect display device 13.

(Step S1703)
If it is determined in step S1701 that the command stored in the RAM 102c is not a short hit opening command, the short hit command reception processing program 332 determines that the command stored in the RAM 102c is a round hit command. It is determined whether it is a start command.
In the first embodiment, even if a short hit round start command is transmitted from the main control board 101 to the sub control board 102, the sub control board 102 does not perform any control. Therefore, if it is determined in step S1703 that the command stored in the RAM 102c is a short hit round start command, the CPU 102a directly ends the short hit command reception process and executes the next routine process. .

(Step S1704)
The case where it is determined that the command stored in the RAM 102c is not a round start command is the case where the short hitting ending command is stored in the RAM 102c. Therefore, in this case, the short hit command reception processing program 332 sets the short hit ending effect command. Even if the short hitting ending effect command is set, the effect on the effect display device 13 or the audio output device 18 that has been performed since the start of the short hit game is continued. The effect executed based on the short hitting ending effect command is, for example, an effect caused by lighting of the effect lighting device 16.

(Small hit command reception processing)
If it is determined in step S1503 that the small hit command is stored in the RAM 102c, the CPU 102a reads the small hit command reception processing program 333 and starts the small hit command reception process shown in FIG. To do.

(Step S1751)
The small hit command reception processing program 333 determines whether or not the command stored in the RAM 102c is a small hit opening command.

(Step S1752)
When the small hitting opening command is stored in the RAM 102c, the small hitting command reception processing program 333 sets a command related to the effect performed during the small hit game (short win game effect command). The “small hit game effect command” set here turns on the command for displaying an image on the effect display device 13, the command for operating the effect agent devices 14 and 15, and the effect lighting device 16. Command for outputting voice from the voice output device 18. The effects performed based on these commands are continuously performed from the start to the end of the small hit game.
The effect executed based on the small hit game effect command is the same as the effect executed based on the short hit game effect command. In other words, the same aspect of the effect is executed during the small hit game and during the short hit game.

(Step S1753)
If it is determined in step S1751 that the command stored in the RAM 102c is not a small hitting opening command, the small hitting command reception processing program 333 sets a small hitting ending effect command.
Even if the small hitting ending effect command is set, the effect on the effect display device 13 or the audio output device 18 that has been performed since the start of the small hit game is continued. The effect executed based on the small hitting ending effect command is, for example, an effect caused by lighting of the effect lighting device 16.
The effect executed based on the small hitting ending effect command is the same as the effect executed based on the short hitting ending effect command. In other words, the same aspect of the effect is executed during the small hit game and during the short hit game.

(Stroke change notification command reception processing)
The CPU 102a reads the stroke change notification command reception processing program 334 from the ROM 102b, and executes the stroke change notification command reception processing shown in FIG.

(Step S1801)
The stroke change notification command reception processing program 334 determines whether or not a stroke change notification command is stored in the RAM 102c. As a result, when the stroke change notification command is not stored, the stroke change notification command reception process is terminated, and the next subroutine is executed.

(Step S1802)
When determining in step S1801 that the stroke change notification command is stored, the CPU 102a determines whether or not the ON signal of the touch sensor SW3b is stored in the RAM 102c.

(Step S1803)
If it is determined in step S1802 that the ON signal of the touch sensor SW3b is stored in the RAM 102c, the detection angle Y of the rotation angle detection SW3a stored in the RAM 102c is confirmed.

(Step S1804) (Step S1805)
Next, the CPU 102a determines whether or not the detected angle Y stored in the RAM 102c exceeds a predetermined angle. For example, it is determined whether or not the handle angle exceeds 80 degrees (step S1804). In the first embodiment, a case where the detection angle Y exceeds 80 degrees is regarded as a so-called right-handed state. As a result, when the detected angle Y exceeds the predetermined angle, the stroke change notification command reception processing program 334 sets a stroke change notification confirmation command (step S1805).
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1804 that the detected angle Y stored in the RAM 102c does not exceed the predetermined angle, the CPU 102a directly ends the stroke change notification command reception process and executes the next subroutine. .
Thereby, when the operation handle 3 is not gripped (for example, when the game is finished or when the user is away from the seat), or when the rotation angle of the operation handle 3 falls below the predetermined angle, the stroke change notification is made. Will not be executed. That is, the stroke change notification is executed only when a game ball is launched in a state where the rotation operation angle of the operation handle 3 is equal to or greater than a predetermined angle. Therefore, it is possible to perform the notification only when the stroke change notification is actually necessary (when the player does not suffer a disadvantage by following this notification).

(Direction command transmission processing)
As described above, when each production command is set, the CPU 102 a reads the production command transmission program 335 and transmits the set command to the lamp control board 104 or the production control board 105. Thereby, the routine processing in the sub control board 102 is completed.

As described above, when an effect command is transmitted from the sub control board 102 to the effect control board 105, the image CPU 105a ₁ reads the program from the image ROM 105b ₁ , and the effect display device 13 is based on the received effect command. Controls the image display at.
Specifically, in the demonstration execution command reception processing in the sub control board 102, when the effect confirmation command is set, an image CPU 105a ₁ reads a decorative symbol variation display program 342, the row in the variation display of the special symbols The change display of the decorative pattern is started. That is, when the performance control board 105 receives an effect confirmation command, decorative symbol variation display program 342, a decoration pattern data corresponding to the effect confirmation command stored in the image ROM105b _1, effect display written to VRAM105d Display control is performed on the device 13. As a result, the decorative display is displayed on the effect display device 13 over a predetermined time.

As described above, when a notification command is transmitted from the sub control board 102 to the effect control board 105, the image CPU 105a ₁ reads the program from the image ROM 105b _1, and displays the effect based on the received effect command. The image display in the device 13 is controlled.
Specifically, in the stroke change notification command reception process of the sub-control board 102, when the stroke change notification confirmation command is set, the voice CPU 105a ₂ reads the voice output device control program 345 and starts the stroke change notification. To do. That is, when the production control board 105 receives the stroke change notification confirmation command, the voice output device control program 345 receives voice data corresponding to the stroke change notification determination command stored in the voice OM 105b ₂ (for example, “left "Return to strike") is output from the audio output device 18. This makes it possible to notify the player that the launch strength of the game ball needs to be changed.

As described above, according to the first embodiment, when the gaming state is changed from the short-time gaming state to the non-short-time gaming state and after winning the jackpot game other than the short-time winning game, the player is prompted to change the stroke. Will be done. Then, according to this notification, the player can efficiently enter the game ball into the optimum starting port with a high possibility of entering. Therefore, it is possible to provide very useful information for a player who is unfamiliar with the game.
Further, such notification is executed for a certain period (for example, several times), but when it is detected that the player has changed the operation state of the operation handle 3 to a predetermined state, the stroke The change notification can be ended. Further, when the player has already changed the operation state of the operation handle 3 to a predetermined state, unnecessary notification is not executed. Therefore, it is possible to provide useful information to the player without giving the player bothersomeness due to unnecessary notification.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, an example in which the game ball launch process is executed on the launch control board 106 will be described. The parts corresponding to those in FIGS. 1 to 3, 5 to 6, and 9 to 31 are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof is omitted, and the differences from the first embodiment are mainly described. explain.

The launch control board 106 controls the launch of the game ball. The launch control board 106 is connected to the prize ball control board 103 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication. A rotation angle detection SW 3 a and a touch sensor SW 3 b are connected to the input side of the firing control board 106, and a detection signal of the operation handle 3 is input to the firing control board 106. The detection signal detected here is transmitted to the main control board 101 via the prize ball control board 103.
A launch solenoid 4a for launching a game ball is connected to the output side of the launch control board 106.
When the firing control board 106 receives the permission signal transmitted from the main control board 101 via the prize ball control board 103, the detection signal of the touch sensor SW3b input to the firing control board 106 is turned ON. The voltage corresponding to the detection angle (Y) detected by the rotation angle detection SW 3a is applied to the firing solenoid 4a. Thereby, the launch control board 106 performs a game ball launch process.

  FIG. 32 shows an example of a main program stored in the ROM 101b of the main control board 101 that controls the progress of the game in the second embodiment.

  The ROM 101b stores a game ball launch information storage processing program 251 that stores game ball launch information when a game ball launch process is performed based on input signals from the touch sensor SW3b and the rotation angle detection SW 3a. .

  FIG. 33 shows main subroutines executed in the main control board 101, and the CPU 101a repeats all the subroutines shown every 0.004 seconds. Here, game ball launch information storage processing → winning gate passage processing → normal symbol variation processing → second start opening processing → start opening entrance processing → special symbol variation processing → large winning opening processing → prize ball processing → output processing It is assumed that the subroutines are executed in this order, but this is for convenience of explanation. Actually, processing performed based on the signal from the detection SW (game ball launch information storage processing, winning gate passage processing, start entrance ball processing) → variation processing (normal symbol variation processing, special symbol variation processing) → character It is preferable that the subroutines are executed in the order of processing to be activated (second start-up port processing, big prize opening processing) → prize ball processing → output processing.

(Game ball launch information storage process)
First, the CPU 101a of the main control board 101 reads the game ball launch information storage processing program 251 from the ROM 101b, and performs the game ball launch information storage process shown in FIG.

(Step S1901)
The game ball launch information storage processing program first determines whether or not the touch sensor SW3b of the operation handle 3 has detected an ON signal.

(Step S1902)
If it is determined in step S1901 that the touch sensor SW3b detects an ON signal, the detection angle Y of the rotation angle detection SW3a is detected.

(Step S1903)
Next, the signals detected in step S1901 and step S102 are stored in the game ball launch information storage area 411b of the RAM 101c as game ball launch information. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1901 that the touch sensor SW3b has not detected the ON signal, the OFF signal of the touch sensor SW3b is stored in the game ball launch information storage area 411b of the RAM 101c as game ball launch information. .
Thereby, the game ball launch information storage process ends.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, the same effect as that obtained in the first embodiment can be obtained, and the load on the main control board 101 can be reduced.

  Note that the game ball launching mechanism for launching the game ball is not particularly limited. In Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2, as a game ball launching mechanism, a voltage applied to the firing solenoid causes the plunger inserted in the firing solenoid to press the hammer end for launching the game ball. And launching game balls. On the other hand, for example, when a voltage is applied to the launching rotary solenoid, the launching rotary solenoid rotates, and a game ball is launched by a launcher that engages in the launching rotary solenoid. It may be. Here, the launching rotary solenoid rotates at a higher speed as a higher voltage is applied, and the launcher can launch the game ball at a faster initial speed.

6 gaming area 8 winning gate 10 second starting port 11 large winning port 101a CPU
201a random number lottery program 202a per random number determination program 202b fluctuation time setting program 202c normal symbol variation display program 203 second start port control program 203a opening time setting program 221b big hit random number lottery program 221c symbol random number lottery program 222a big hit determination processing program 222d special Symbol variation display program 222g Flag deletion program 241a Big hit game processing program 241b Flag addition program 241c Flag deletion program 241f Small hit game processing program

Claims (1)

The launch intensity of the game ball changes according to the amount of operation of the operation handle operated when launching the game ball, and the game ball launched on the game board has entered the start opening provided on the game board. The game data is acquired as an opportunity, and a lottery for the right to execute special games that can win prize balls is performed.
A game in a low-probability gaming state in which the winning probability of acquiring the right to execute the special game is controlled to a preset probability, or in a high-probability gaming state in which the winning probability is higher than the low-probability gaming state A gaming machine provided with a control means for controlling the progress of
The operation handle includes an operation amount detection means for detecting an operation amount of the operation handle,
The start opening is arranged at a position where a first start opening and a game ball launched to enter the first start opening cannot enter and the game ball cannot enter or has an opportunity to enter. A second start port controlled by a first mode having a small number and a second mode in which the game ball has more opportunities to enter than the first mode,
The control means includes
From the end of a specific special game until the predetermined condition is satisfied, the second starting port can be shifted to the short-time gaming state with a higher rate controlled by the second mode than the first mode,
Informing means for informing the player to change the operation amount of the operation handle over a predetermined period, when the predetermined condition is satisfied and the short-time gaming state is ended,
A notification stop means for ending the notification,
The notification stop unit is configured to change the operation amount detected by the operation amount detection unit from the operation amount that enables the ball to enter the second start port when the notification is performed by the notification unit. 1. A gaming machine that executes control for terminating the notification performed by the notification means when a change is made to an operation amount that enables entry into a starting opening.

Images